Continuing in a consistent, regular manner without interruption or significant variation in pace or intensity.
From Middle English 'stede' meaning 'place' or 'position,' related to 'stead' (as in 'homestead'). The sense evolved from 'firmly positioned' to 'unchanging in position or behavior' by the 16th century, with the adverb form following naturally.
The phrase 'steady as she goes' from nautical terminology captures the essence - maintaining course without deviation. Remarkably, 'steady' relationships and 'steady' hands both invoke this same idea of reliable consistency, whether in emotions or physical control.
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