run-in

1 of 2

noun

1
British : the final part of a race or racetrack
2
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
: 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

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
As she’s poised in a YA triangle between selfish dreamboat Ryan and earnest nerd Collin (Taeho K), JJ just happens (or not) to have a run-in with a gang of baddies presided over by Nancy, an oligarch’s moll played by Anna Faris in wet-look platinum hair and magenta lipstick and raccoon eyeshadow. Owen Gleiberman, Variety, 18 July 2024 Portman also opened up about the viral run-in during her Monday visit to TODAY. Shania Russell, EW.com, 16 July 2024
Verb
That blast regained the lead for the Twins and provided what would be the game-winning run in their 4-2 victory over the San Francisco Giants on Saturday evening. Betsy Helfand, Twin Cities, 14 July 2024 Bryce Eldridge, the 19-year-old first baseman the Giants selected 16th overall in last year’s amateur draft, took part in the Future’s Game at Globe Life Park in Arlington, Texas, to kick off All-Star week, going 1-for-2 and scoring a run in the National League’s 6-1 win. Evan Webeck, The Mercury News, 13 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for run-in 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'run-in.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1799, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1888, in the meaning defined at sense 1b

Time Traveler
The first known use of run-in was in 1799

Dictionary Entries Near run-in

Cite this Entry

“Run-in.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/run-in. Accessed 26 Jul. 2024.

Kids Definition

run-in

noun
ˈrən-ˌin
: an angry dispute : quarrel

More from Merriam-Webster on run-in

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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