run-in

1 of 2

noun

ˈrən-ˌin 

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

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

somewhat old-fashioned : 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 of run-in

Noun

• encounter

Verb

• visit
• run (over)
• stop (by or in)
• drop by
• come over
• step in
• drop in
• come by
• call

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

This isn’t Williams’ first run-in with the league, either, which could lead to a more substantial fine. —Cole Sullivan, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Nov. 2025

Additionally, Duarte has a lengthy history of run-ins with law enforcement, including previous arrests for burglary and larceny in 2024, the statement added. —Julia Bonavita , Brooke Taylor, FOXNews.com, 17 Nov. 2025

Verb

Stefanik’s comments reflect the challenge ahead for Republican candidates running in a challenging political terrain. —Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune, 16 Nov. 2025

The Sydney show capped a five-city Australian run in which Metallica incorporated local tributes at every stop. —Jessica Lynch, Billboard, 16 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1799, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1888, in the meaning defined at sense 1b

Rhymes for run-in

• akin
• auxin
• buckskin
• chagrin
• deerskin
• foreskin
• fuchsin
• herein
• kingpin
• linchpin
• pigskin
• pinyin

Kids Definition

run-in

noun

ˈrən-ˌin

: an angry dispute : quarrel