runway

noun

run·​way ˈrən-ˌwā 

1

a

: a beaten path made by animals

b

: a passageway for animals

2

: a paved strip of ground on a landing field for the landing and takeoff of aircraft

3

a

: a narrow platform from a stage into an auditorium

b

: a platform along which models walk in a fashion show

4

: run sense 10b

5

: the area or path along which a jumper, pole-vaulter, or javelin thrower runs

Examples of runway in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The long days can be spent waiting around, with runway regulars spending hours waiting their turn for hair and makeup, castings, and fittings. — Hannah Jackson, Vogue, 14 July 2026

The eSTOL also has a greater range and payload than the average eVTOL, since using a runway—even a very short one—requires less battery power than vertical flight. — Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 14 July 2026

Now, Kaye sits front row at runway shows and attended the Met Gala for the second time in May. — Kara Nesvig, Time, 14 July 2026

To celebrate the creativity, innovation, vision and work of 10 emerging designers and their graduate collections, the school staged a runway show at its Shoreditch campus location. — Fairchild Studio, Footwear News, 14 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1828, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for runway

• airway
• allay
• archway
• array
• ashtray
• assez
• astray
• aue
• away
• ballet
• belay
• beltway

Kids Definition

runway

noun

run·​way ˈrən-ˌwā 

1

: run entry 2 sense 9a

2

: a paved strip of ground (as at an airport) for the landing and takeoff of aircraft

3

: a support (as a track, pipe, or trough) on which something runs