runner

noun

run·​ner ˈrə-nər 

1

a

: one that runs : racer

b

: base runner

c

: ballcarrier

2

a

: messenger

b

: one that smuggles or distributes illicit or contraband goods (such as drugs, liquor, or guns)

3

: any of several large vigorous carangid fishes

4

a

: either of the longitudinal pieces on which a sled or sleigh slides

b

: the part of a skate that slides on the ice : blade

c

: the support of a drawer or a sliding door

5

a

: an elongated horizontal stem arising from the base of a plant

especially : stolon sense 1a

b

: a plant (such as a strawberry) that forms or spreads by means of runners

c

: a twining vine (such as a scarlet runner bean)

6

a

: a long narrow carpet for a hall or staircase

b

: a narrow decorative cloth cover for a table or dresser top

7

: an adjustable backstay running from mast to rail on a sail boat or ship

8

: a running shot in basketball

Synonyms

• bootlegger
• contrabandist
• courier
• smuggler

Examples of runner in a Sentence

The runner slid into third base.

sent a runner to tell them that all was ready for the feast

Recent Examples on the Web

Outdoor Life trail runners tested and reviewed the best running headlamps that have a secure fit, steady lighting, and adequate throw for navigating rough terrain at high speeds. —Ashley Thess, Outdoor Life, 14 Nov. 2024

Into Leadville’s Wilderness Surrounding Leadville in an 11.6-mile circle is the paved Mineral Belt Trail, accessible to runners, cyclists, and dogs, and wheelchair friendly. —James Dziezynski, Outside Online, 10 Nov. 2024

Harrison had 24% of the vote before being removed from the running and ballots in her favor being redistributed to the two front runners. Harrison, who represented District 4 before resigning earlier this year, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. —Sierra Lopez, The Mercury News, 6 Nov. 2024

The organization said Choi ran with the assistance of two unauthorized people riding the course on electric bicycles, which obstructed runners. —Marlene Lenthang, NBC News, 5 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing runner

• base runner
• blockade-runner
• do a runner
• front-runner
• rainbow runner
• runner bean
• runner's high
• runner-up
• scarlet runner bean
• stretch runner

Kids Definition

runner

noun

run·​ner ˈrən-ər 

1

a

: one that runs

b

: base runner

2

: messenger

3

: a thin piece or part on which something slides

4

a

: a slender creeping stem that arises from the base of a plant

especially : stolon

b

: a plant (as a strawberry) that forms or spreads by runners

5

a

: a long narrow carpet (as for a hall)

b

: a narrow decorative cloth cover for a table or dresser top