runway

noun

run·​way ˈrən-ˌwā 

1

a

: a beaten path made by animals

b

: a passageway for animals

2

: a paved strip of ground on a landing field for the landing and takeoff of aircraft

3

a

: a narrow platform from a stage into an auditorium

b

: a platform along which models walk in a fashion show

4

: run sense 10b

5

: the area or path along which a jumper, pole-vaulter, or javelin thrower runs

Examples of runway in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Baggy bombers were spotted on the runway at Saint Laurent’s spring 2025 fashion show, which clearly nodded to the decade of decadence, while boho styles — including Penny Lane coats — have seen a major resurgence in the past year. —Hannah Malach, WWD, 26 Jan. 2025

On the runways, designers are using the color with billowy silks and gauzy organza in straight, classic silhouettes. —Marilú Almaguer, Glamour, 24 Jan. 2025

He’s also got some runway in front of him physically to fill out his frame and find another level. —Scott Wheeler, The Athletic, 23 Jan. 2025

Their runway will also remain closed until mid-April. —Raul A. Reyes, Newsweek, 23 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1828, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

runway

noun

run·​way ˈrən-ˌwā 

1

: run entry 2 sense 9a

2

: a paved strip of ground (as at an airport) for the landing and takeoff of aircraft

3

: a support (as a track, pipe, or trough) on which something runs