runner's high

noun

: a feeling of euphoria that is experienced by some individuals engaged in strenuous running and that is held to be associated with a release of endorphins by the brain

Examples of runner's high 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.
People who have experienced a runner's high often report feeling less pain, being invigorated, and having an easier time running longer distances.1 A runner's high can also boost your mood, relieve tension, and improve your self-confidence.2 1. Sherri Gordon, Health, 7 May 2025 There's nothing better than a runner's high...until the next day. Olivia Evans, womenshealthmag.com, 13 June 2023 The study authors' actual claim was that endocannabinoids in addition to endorphins may play a role in runner's high. Ben Thomas, Discover Magazine, 19 Oct. 2015 While virtual events filled the time between 2019 and now, a true runner's high isn't complete without an official finish line (or Finish Swine in this case) along with the accompanying medal. Scott Springer, The Enquirer, 1 Nov. 2021 One thing that comes close to rivaling a runner's high (or second wind) is the satisfaction of snagging a really good deal on brand new workout gear. Karina Hoshikawa, refinery29.com, 25 June 2020

Word History

First Known Use

1975, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of runner's high was in 1975

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Cite this Entry

“Runner's high.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/runner%27s%20high. Accessed 19 May. 2025.

Medical Definition

runner's high

noun
run·​ner's high ˈrən-ərz- How to pronounce runner's high (audio)
: a feeling of euphoria that is experienced by some individuals engaged in strenuous running and that is held to be associated with the release of endorphins by the brain
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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