lockstep

noun

1. (uncountable, usually)A step whereby the toe of one man is brought very close to the heel of the man in front.
2. (figuratively, uncountable, usually)Close connection, unison, rigid synchronization.

   “The CIA's analysts learned to march in lockstep, conforming to conventional wisdom.”

   “But what [the Founding Fathers] weren’t counting on was lockstep partisanship, which translates today into a pro-Trump, pro-MAGA congressional majority that is likely to reinforce the president’s agenda, at least until the 2026 midterm elections.”

3. (uncountable, usually)An inflexible, rigid or stifling pattern.

adj

1. (not-comparable)In close connection, in unison, synchronized.

   “With both official university policies lock-step in favor of military recruitment, the next move is up to the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations.”