running
running Lexical Profile
running Game Scores & Validity
• adjective
Moving or performed at a fast pace on foot, or executed while in rapid motion.
"The athlete took a running leap over the wide puddle on the track."
Continuous, ongoing, or maintained over an extended period of time.
"The sports announcer provided a lively running commentary throughout the entire match."
Flowing in a steady stream or supplied smoothly through pipes and faucets (especially of water or other liquids).
"The remote mountain cabin was recently upgraded with electricity and hot running water."
In active operation or working order (especially of an engine, machine, or system).
"He left the car engine running to keep the heater warm while waiting outside the station."
• noun
The action, sport, or physical exercise of moving rapidly on foot so that both feet are briefly off the ground during each stride.
"She took up long-distance running to improve her cardiovascular fitness."
The management, administration, or operational control of an organization, business, or machine.
"She assumed responsibility for the day-to-day running of the family bakery."
The state of participating as a contender with a realistic chance of winning a competition or election (usually in the phrase 'in the running' or 'out of the running').
"After her impressive interview, she remains firmly in the running for the director position."
• adverb
In uninterrupted succession; consecutively (used directly after a plural noun of time).
"Our school debate team has won the regional championship for three years running."
Word Nuance & Usage
When used as an adverb meaning 'in succession,' 'running' is strictly postpositive, appearing immediately after a plural noun denoting a period of time (e.g., 'for three days running').
• Rhymes for running
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Derived from Middle English 'rinninge' or 'renning', from the verb 'run' (combining Old English 'rinnan', to flow, and Old Norse 'renna', to run) plus the suffix '-ing'.