trial run

noun

Synonyms of trial runnext
: a testing exercise : experiment

Examples of trial run in a Sentence

They will put the software through many trial runs before putting it on the market. We will have to give the machine a trial run.
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.
The trial runs will begin at the demo factory with a specific focus on improving efficiency. Alexandra Harrell, Footwear News, 10 Apr. 2026 But Qatar was just a trial run. Los Angeles Times, 7 Apr. 2026 The city has used the Flock system since a trial run in 2021 and contracting with them in 2022. Camryn Dadey, Sacbee.com, 28 Mar. 2026 On Saturday, March 14, Motz’s Burgers on Eureka Road in Southgate opened with a trial run for family and friends, though other customers walked in, with burgers and onions sizzling on the grill. Susan Selasky, Freep.com, 17 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for trial run

Word History

First Known Use

1903, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of trial run was in 1903

Cite this Entry

“Trial run.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/trial%20run. Accessed 15 Apr. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on trial run

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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

More from Merriam-Webster