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Definition of runt

runt

/rʌnt/
runt
Plural:runts
•
Adjective:runtish
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runt Lexical Profile

runt Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

An animal that is unusually small or weak compared to others of its kind, especially the smallest newborn in a litter.

Example

"Although he was the runt of the litter, the tiny puppy grew up to be the most energetic dog in the house."

2

An undersized, weak, or contemptible person (used disparagingly).

Example

"The older boys teased him and called him a runt until he hit a sudden growth spurt in high school."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for runt

Word Nuance & Usage

While neutral when describing the smallest animal in a litter, 'runt' is strongly derogatory and insulting when applied to a person.

• Rhymes for runt

• Nearby Words

running
runny
runoff
runt
runthrough
runtime
runty

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the early 16th century referring to an old or decayed tree stump or a small breed of cattle, likely of Dutch or Low German origin (compare Dutch 'rund', meaning ox or neat cattle).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Runt. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/runt
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