run-in

noun

Save Word

\ ˈrən-ˌin

Definition of run-in

(Entry 1 of 2)

1 British : the final part of a race or racetrack

2 : altercation, quarrel

3 : something inserted as a substantial addition in copy or typeset matter

run in

verb

ran in; run in; running in; runs in

Definition of run in (Entry 2 of 2)

transitive verb

1a : 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

Synonyms Example Sentences Learn More About run-in

Examples of run-in in a Sentence

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: Verb Julianne Hough has her hands full after a juice run in N.Y.C. on July 27. — People Staff, Peoplemag, 4 Aug. 2022 Diossa’s opponent in that primary is Stefan Pryor, who stepped down from his role as state commerce secretary in June to run in the race. — Brian Amaral, BostonGlobe.com, 4 Aug. 2022 The left-hander most recently pitched on Saturday against the Milwaukee Brewers, allowing one run in the eighth inning. — Steve Hewitt, Hartford Courant, 2 Aug. 2022 The strike was an important achievement for Mr. Biden, whose unpopularity in polls has jeopardized his party’s chances in the midterm elections this fall and prompted fellow Democrats to urge him to let someone else run in 2024. — New York Times, 1 Aug. 2022 Cleveland’s left fielder wrapped up a strong July on Sunday with a bunt single to extend his hitting streak to 14 games, besting teammate Jose Ramirez’s 13-game run in June for a team high this season. — Joe Noga, cleveland, 1 Aug. 2022 The timing of Wheeless’ run in Arizona's 4th District may couple well with her background: The Republican Party has courted Hispanic candidates for November's midterm elections as Latinos have trended away from Democrats and toward the GOP. — Fox News, 31 July 2022 Ty Gibbs, who will run in the Verizon 200 in relief of Kurt Busch, spent the first stage running in the top-5 and ultimately finishing the stage 6th. — Rob Peeters, The Indianapolis Star, 30 July 2022 At a trade show in December 2009, Mermoud asked Plaatjes, a physical therapist and the 1993 world marathon champion, to do a brief test run in a Hoka prototype. — Brian Metzler, Outside Online, 27 July 2022 See More

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'run-in.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.