A2noun2K

Runner

UK /["/ˈrʌnə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈrʌnər/"]/

Definition

a person or an animal that runs, especially one taking part in a race

In simple words: A person who runs, especially for sport or exercise.

Examples

  • a **long-distance/cross-country/marathon runner**
  • He was a fast runner.
  • a list of runners *(= horses in a race)* and riders
  • She is the world's greatest marathon runner.
  • She was a good runner and soon caught up with Tom.
  • Some of the country's top long-distance runners are competing in this 10km race.
  • There are several promising young 1500-metre runners coming through.
  • a drug runner
  • the runners of a sledge

Usage notes

Used in both casual and formal contexts. Appropriate in discussions about sports, health, or fitness. Avoid using it in highly formal writing or contexts where more specific terms (like 'athlete' or 'marathoner') are needed.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

A 'run-ner' is like a car 'running' fast, just think of someone zooming by!

Collocations

  • fast
  • good
  • great

Synonyms

  • jogger
  • sprinter
  • athlete
  • marathoner
  • track star

Antonyms

  • walker
  • crawler

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'running' — remember 'runner' is a person.
  • Using it as a verb instead of a noun.
  • Omitting the context of 'runner' when discussing types (e.g., 'long-distance runner').