Synonyms of runner

runner

noun

ˈrə-nər 

1

as in smuggler

a person who imports or exports goods secretly and illegally

a drug runner

Synonyms & Similar Words

• smuggler
• courier
• bootlegger
• coyote
• mule
• contrabandist
• gunrunner

2

as in messenger

one that carries a message or does an errand

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

• messenger
• courier
• page
• delegate
• ambassador
• agent
• express
• representative
• deputy
• go-between
• forerunner
• harbinger
• bearer
• envoy
• carrier
• mail carrier
• letter carrier
• emissary
• mailman
• herald
• deliveryman

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of runner

Comparable to the brand’s Gel-Kayano stability runner, the GT-2000 15 offers an even more lightweight feel without sacrificing the stable foundation needed by athletes who overpronate. — Riley Jones, Footwear News, 15 July 2026

In the example below, Stephen Eustaquio plays it short, with Canada set up to attack the six-yard box with two runners. — Anantaajith Raghuraman, New York Times, 14 July 2026

One runner decided to skip the preliminary heat and just run in the finals. — Zach Helfand, New Yorker, 13 July 2026

However, bee balm also naturally spreads via runners and seeds. — Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 July 2026