outrun

verb

out·​run ˌau̇t-ˈrən How to pronounce outrun (audio)
outran ˌau̇t-ˈran How to pronounce outrun (audio) ; outrun; outrunning
Synonyms of outrunnext

transitive verb

1
: to run faster than
2
: exceed, surpass
his ambitions outrun his abilities

Examples of outrun in a Sentence

The rabbit had no chance of outrunning the dogs. His motorcycle could outrun any car on the road.
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.
Now, Lilith must team up with Cinderella to fight biker trolls, outrun evil henchmen, and escape the Screaming Woods. Kevin Giraud, Variety, 23 June 2026 Unable to outrun the Bitchfist, the Hand earns his reputation for cunning and courage. Amanda Whiting, Vulture, 22 June 2026 Massive, lumpy-looking hippos, who prefer to wallow or swim slowly in water pools, lakes, and rivers can run as fast as 25 km/h (about 70 meters in 10 seconds), a respectable sprinting speed not to be matched by most adults trying to outrun an enraged animal. Literary Hub, 22 June 2026 Serving as the longest-running series in Bravo’s repertoire, the show has outrun franchise staples like The Real Housewives of Orange County and Below Deck. Mckinley Franklin, HollywoodReporter, 21 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for outrun

Word History

First Known Use

1526, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of outrun was in 1526

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Cite this Entry

“Outrun.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/outrun. Accessed 25 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

outrun

verb
out·​run (ˈ)au̇t-ˈrən How to pronounce outrun (audio)
outran -ˈran How to pronounce outrun (audio) ; outrun; outrunning
1
: to run or go faster than
2
: exceed sense 1
our needs outran our funds
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