Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Tread \Tread\, v. t.
   1. To step or walk on.

            Forbid to tread the promised land he saw. --Prior.

            Methought she trod the ground with greater grace.
                                                  --Dryden.

   2. To beat or press with the feet; as, to tread a path; to
      tread land when too light; a well-trodden path.

   3. To go through or accomplish by walking, dancing, or the
      like. `` I am resolved to forsake Malta, tread a
      pilgrimage to fair Jerusalem.'' --Beau. & Fl.

            They have measured many a mile, To tread a measure
            with you on this grass.               --Shak.

   4. To crush under the foot; to trample in contempt or hatred;
      to subdue.

            Through thy name will we tread them under that rise
            up against us.                        --Ps. xliv. 5.

   5. To copulate with; to feather; to cover; -- said of the
      male bird. --Chaucer.

   {To tread out}, to press out with the feet; to press out, as
      wine or wheat; as, to tread out grain with cattle or
      horses.

   {To tread the stage}, to act as a stageplayer; to perform a
      part in a drama.