runner

noun

run·​ner ˈrə-nər 

1

a

: one that runs : racer

b

: base runner

c

: ballcarrier

2

a

: messenger

b

: one that smuggles or distributes illicit or contraband goods (such as drugs, liquor, or guns)

3

: any of several large vigorous carangid fishes

4

a

: either of the longitudinal pieces on which a sled or sleigh slides

b

: the part of a skate that slides on the ice : blade

c

: the support of a drawer or a sliding door

5

a

: an elongated horizontal stem arising from the base of a plant

especially : stolon sense 1a

b

: a plant (such as a strawberry) that forms or spreads by means of runners

c

: a twining vine (such as a scarlet runner bean)

6

a

: a long narrow carpet for a hall or staircase

b

: a narrow decorative cloth cover for a table or dresser top

7

: an adjustable backstay running from mast to rail on a sail boat or ship

8

: a running shot in basketball

Synonyms of runner

• smuggler

Examples of runner in a Sentence

The runner slid into third base.

sent a runner to tell them that all was ready for the feast

Recent Examples on the Web

Brooks Women’s Glycerin Stealthfit 22 Shoe The Glycerin Stealthfit 22 sneakers are an optimal performance runner that also allows for easy slip-on thanks to loops at the front and back. —Taylor Fox, Travel + Leisure, 29 Nov. 2025

Asics Gel-Kayano 30 Running Shoes These stability shoes are super springy and designed for long-distance runners that rely on extra structure and support while running. —Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Nov. 2025

Unlike lonely long-distance runners, though, Preston’s sprinters are guided by a centralized strategy team, composed of people from different corners of the business, which decides which initiatives to prioritize and oversees the teams’ progress. —Andrew Edgecliffe-Johnson, semafor.com, 28 Nov. 2025

Many runners dressed up in costumes, and awards went to the best kid, adult and group ensembles. —Erika I. Ritchie, Oc Register, 27 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing runner

• base runner
• blockade-runner
• do a runner
• front-runner
• rainbow runner
• runner bean
• runner's high
• runner-up
• scarlet runner bean
• show runner
• stretch runner

Rhymes for runner

• brunner
• gunnar
• gunner
• tonner
• forerunner

Kids Definition

runner

noun

run·​ner ˈrən-ər 

1

a

: one that runs

b

: base runner

2

: messenger

3

: a thin piece or part on which something slides

4

a

: a slender creeping stem that arises from the base of a plant

especially : stolon

b

: a plant (as a strawberry) that forms or spreads by runners

5

a

: a long narrow carpet (as for a hall)

b

: a narrow decorative cloth cover for a table or dresser top