Runaway

/ˈrʌn.ə.weɪ/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A person who has run away, especially a child or teenager.
The organization provides support for runaways who are seeking shelter.
A path or road for escape or exit.
The theater has a designated runaway for emergencies.
adjective
Having escaped from confinement or control.
The authorities are searching for a runaway horse that bolted from the farm.
Out of control or excessively increasing.
The company is facing runaway inflation that is affecting its profit margins.

Etymology

The word 'runaway' comes from the verb 'run' combined with 'away', suggesting the action of fleeing.

Common Phrases and Expressions

runaway success:
A success that is achieved much faster or to a greater extent than expected.
runaway train:
A situation that is spiraling out of control.
runaway bride:
A bride who suddenly cancels her wedding and flees.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

A person who leaves without informing others, often for adventure or to avoid responsibilities.
He's a runaway, always looking for the next thrill.
Someone who has abruptly quit something, like a job or a relationship.
She was a runaway from her mundane desk job.