run-in

1 of 2

noun

ˈrən-ˌin 

1

British : the final part of a race or racetrack

2

: altercation, quarrel

3

: something inserted as a substantial addition in copy or typeset matter

run in

2 of 2

verb

ran in; run in; running in; runs in

transitive verb

1

a

: to insert as additional matter

b

: to make (typeset matter) continuous without a paragraph or other break

2

somewhat old-fashioned : to arrest for a usually minor offense

3

chiefly British : to break in (a new machine) gradually by careful operation

intransitive verb

: to pay a casual visit

Synonyms of run-in

Noun

• encounter

Verb

• visit
• run (over)
• stop (by or in)
• drop by
• come over
• step in
• drop in
• come by
• call

Examples of run-in in a Sentence

Noun

the rival gangs had a bit of a run-in last night

Verb

I just thought I'd run in and pick up my package.

if we catch you shoplifting again, we're going to run you in

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Lane was granted immunity from prosecution for his testimony against Adams, though Wright Stevens grappled with growing evidence that suggested Lane had prior run-ins with the Ipalook sisters and was at their home the night of the murders. — Mackenzie Farkus, Christian Science Monitor, 27 Aug. 2026

The odds of run-ins between rattlesnakes and humans — as well as other animals — increased this year due to warmer temperatures, which encouraged outdoor activity for both serpents and humans. — Karen Garcia, Los Angeles Times, 27 Aug. 2026

Verb

The Twins struck back with three runs in the bottom of the first. — Lamond Pope, Chicago Tribune, 29 Aug. 2026

Nikko Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar has closed for business, ending its nearly 20-year run in South End Charlotte. — Tanasia Kenney, Charlotte Observer, 28 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1799, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1888, in the meaning defined at sense 1b

Rhymes for run-in

• akin
• auxin
• buckskin
• chagrin
• crankpin
• deerskin
• foreskin
• fuchsin
• herein
• kingpin
• linchpin
• pigskin

Kids Definition

run-in

noun

ˈrən-ˌin

: an angry dispute : quarrel