runny

adjective

run·​ny ˈrə-nē How to pronounce runny (audio)
: having a tendency to run: such as
a
: extremely or excessively soft and liquid
a runny dough
b
: secreting a thin flow of mucus
a runny nose

Examples of runny in a Sentence

The scrambled eggs are runny. The pudding is runnier than I like it. a little boy with a runny nose My eyes felt itchy and runny.
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.
Devices addressing issues such as stress, runny noses and back pain, combined with apps monitoring vital signs and sleep, empower employees to manage their health. Expert Panel®, Forbes, 23 Jan. 2025 Bailey recommends that people watch out for signs of lethargy, runny nose, or discharge around the eyes. Sarah Boden, NPR, 22 Jan. 2025 This can cause mild or moderate symptoms, such as an itchy tongue and mouth, a red itchy rash, a runny nose, sneezing, swelling of the lips or face, vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea. Hatty Willmoth, Newsweek, 21 Jan. 2025 For runny noses, Dr. Robinson stresses the importance of using tissues—avoiding fingers, hands, or clothing—and disposing of them properly. Lia Miller, Parents, 17 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for runny 

Word History

First Known Use

1770, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of runny was in 1770

Dictionary Entries Near runny

Cite this Entry

“Runny.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/runny. Accessed 29 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

runny

adjective
run·​ny ˈrən-ē How to pronounce runny (audio)
runnier; runniest
1
: too soft and liquid
the scrambled eggs are runny
2
: giving off a liquid
a runny nose

Medical Definition

runny

adjective
run·​ny ˈrən-ē How to pronounce runny (audio)
: secreting a thin flow of mucus
a runny nose

More from Merriam-Webster on runny

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!