run-up

1 of 2

noun

1
: the act of running up something
2
: a usually sudden increase in volume or price
3
: a period immediately preceding an action or event

run up

2 of 2

verb

ran up; run up; running up; runs up

intransitive verb

: to grow rapidly : shoot up

transitive verb

1
: bid up
2
: to stitch together quickly
3
: to erect hastily
4
: to achieve by accumulating
ran up a big lead

Examples of run-up in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
There will be no long run-up to the season with hours spent preparing her mind and body to compete for 30-plus games. Chantel Jennings, The Athletic, 26 Feb. 2025 The recent run-up in rental rates looks to be in the rear-view mirror. Robert Barone, Forbes, 25 Feb. 2025
Verb
Moya told the outlet that amidst their search, the couple’s two living dogs — Bear and Nikita — continuously ran up to them barking and running off in a different direction. Rachel McRady, People.com, 13 Mar. 2025 Most HOAs do not allow homeowners to contact the HOA’s legal counsel, because boards do not want bills run up from homeowner calls unless the board has approved the expense in advance. Kelly G. Richardson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for run-up

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1897, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

14th century, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of run-up was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Run-up.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/run-up. Accessed 16 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

run up

verb
: to cause to pile up : accumulate
ran up a big telephone bill

More from Merriam-Webster on run-up

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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