1
British
: the final part of a race or racetrack
2
3
: something inserted as a substantial addition in copy or typeset matter
ran in; run in; running in; runs in
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
: 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
Lily Brown,
PEOPLE,
23 June 2026
The kidnappings have been linked to run-ins with drug cartels and corrupt government officials, while there have also been cases involving young women who worked at the country’s many factories.
—
Eduard Cauich,
Los Angeles Times,
21 June 2026
Melissa Gomez,
Los Angeles Times,
4 July 2026
Powerful twin earthquakes have killed 32 people and injured more than 700, the nation’s interim president said on June 25, after the massive shocks collapsed entire buildings and sent people running in panic.
—
Anniek Bao,
CNBC,
3 July 2026
See All Example Sentences for run-in
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.
Noun
The outtakes show the cast struggling through everything from elevator doors that refuse to open on cue to accidental run-ins with set pieces, and even a stumble from Streep in her seat.
—
Lily Brown,
PEOPLE,
23 June 2026
The kidnappings have been linked to run-ins with drug cartels and corrupt government officials, while there have also been cases involving young women who worked at the country’s many factories.
—
Eduard Cauich,
Los Angeles Times,
21 June 2026
Verb
Two Latinos are running in this year’s election to replace Councilmember Curren Price, who is Black and retiring after serving the maximum three terms.
—
Melissa Gomez,
Los Angeles Times,
4 July 2026
Powerful twin earthquakes have killed 32 people and injured more than 700, the nation’s interim president said on June 25, after the massive shocks collapsed entire buildings and sent people running in panic.
—
Anniek Bao,
CNBC,
3 July 2026
See All Example Sentences for run-in
Cite this Entry
“Run-in.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/run-in. Accessed 4 Jul. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
