1 a: one that runs :racerb:base runnerc:ballcarrier 2 a:messengerb: one that smuggles or distributes illicit or contraband goods (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 :bladec: the support of a drawer or a sliding door 5 a: an elongated horizontal stem arising from the base of a plant; especially:stolon 1a b: a plant (as a strawberry) that forms or spreads by means of runners c: a twining vine (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