dry run

noun

1

: a practice exercise : rehearsal, trial

2

: a practice firing without ammunition

Synonyms of dry run

• rehearsal
• trial

Examples of dry run in a Sentence

We did a dry run of the experiment.

After several dry runs, she was ready to give the speech.

Recent Examples on the Web

These were dry runs for similar maneuvers that were essential for the subsequent lunar landings of the Apollo program. — Mary Randolph, Scientific American, 29 Sep. 2026

The murder is framed as a dry run of sorts before Lizzie and Sullivan take out their rage on Andrew and Abby. — Brianna Zigler, Entertainment Weekly, 18 Sep. 2026

The war in Iran may be thought of as a mini dry run for a larger problem. — Kenneth S. Rogoff, Foreign Affairs, 12 Aug. 2026

Practicing the routine before the first bell If your child is heading somewhere new, a dry run can work wonders. — Ashley Lynch, Sacbee.com, 7 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1887, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for dry run

• begun
• grandson
• gudrun
• handgun
• homespun
• outdone
• outrun
• pashtun
• redone
• rerun
• shotgun
• someone

Kids Definition

dry run

noun

1

: a practice firing without ammunition

2

: a practice exercise