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

Unlike many recent Olympic hosts that faced compressed planning timelines, LA28 has benefited from a longer preparation runway. —Tim Genske, Forbes.com, 6 June 2026

But Bucks ownership appears poised to move this month, so that presents plenty of time for a Heat alternate offseason runway, need be. —Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 6 June 2026

Elie Saab Redefining Travel and Living Elie Saab has been on a roll, on and off the runway. —Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 6 June 2026

Any storm could bring downpours and cause wet roads and airport runways, as well as disrupt any evening outdoor plans. —Tammie Souza, CBS News, 6 June 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