Runner

/ˈrʌnər/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A person who runs, especially in a race or for exercise.
She is a talented runner who has won multiple marathons.
A person or animal that runs in a specified manner.
The greyhound is a fast runner and often wins races.
A long strip of carpet or fabric used to cover a floor or table.
They placed a runner in the hallway to protect the wooden floor.
A person who is responsible for delivering messages or goods.
The courier acted as a runner, delivering packages to various locations.
In baseball, a player on base or attempting to reach base.
The runner stole second base during the pitch.

Etymology

From Middle English 'runnere', from Old English 'yrnan', meaning to run.

Common Phrases and Expressions

on the run
Constantly busy or in a hurry.
run for office
To launch a campaign for a political position.
run one's mouth
To talk excessively or boastfully.

Related Words

sprint
A short, quick run at full speed.
jogging
Running at a slow, steady pace.
race
A competition of speed between runners.

Slang Meanings

Street runner
He’s a street runner, always racing back and forth.
Runner's high
After a long run, she felt a runner's high that lifted her spirits.