steppingstone
nounUK /ˈstɛpɪŋstəʊn/
US /ˈstɛpɪŋstoʊn/
A steppingstone is a flat stone you step on to cross water or mud.
We used steppingstones to cross the little stream without getting wet.
SYNONYMS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. Something that helps you move forward toward a goal.
Her first job was a steppingstone to a career in science.
3. A raised stone used as a step.
He climbed the steppingstones up to the door.
4. A person or thing used to help someone else succeed.
He treated the team as a steppingstone to a better position.