end run

1 of 2

noun

1

: a football play in which the ballcarrier attempts to run wide around the end of the line

specifically : sweep sense 3e

2

: an evasive trick or maneuver

made an end run around the regulations

end-run

2 of 2

verb

ˈend-ˌrən 

end-ran; end-running; end-runs

transitive verb

: to avoid artfully

end-running the law

Examples of end run in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

The Supreme Court would eventually be asked to bless this end run around its previous decisions — not just Citizens United, but related rulings from 1976 and 2010. —Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 15 Apr. 2026

Yes, some of the Gen V kids, for sure, show up, more towards the end run. —Glenn Garner, Deadline, 8 Apr. 2026

Verb

However, relatively affordable EVs continued to zoom out of dealerships, and sales of used models surged by 20% compared to the first quarter of 2025, as a crowd of Americans tried to do an end-run around volatile gas prices, according to Cox Automotive. —Kyle Stock, Bloomberg, 14 Apr. 2026

The agency has challenged the subpoena, arguing the bid for the arbitration decision is an end-run around the confidential nature of the proceedings. —Winston Cho, HollywoodReporter, 8 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1902, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1952, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for end run

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

Kids Definition

end run

noun

: a football play in which the ballcarrier attempts to run wide around the end