This is the 9317th most frequent Russian word.
ступки
"Ступки" translates to "mortars" (plural of "ступка" - a bowl for grinding substances).
In this sentence, 'ступке' refers to a mortar used for grinding or mixing substances, such as herbs or spices.
Старик аккуратно размешивал травы в ступке.
The old man carefully mixed herbs in the mortar.
Here, 'ступок' is metaphorically describing progress or steps taken toward a goal, resembling 'steps' in a figurative sense.
После долгих ступок он наконец добрался до вершины холма.
After long steps, he finally reached the top of the hill.
In this sentence, 'ступки' refers to physical steps or stairs that are part of a staircase.