runway

noun

run·​way ˈrən-ˌwā How to pronounce runway (audio)
Synonyms of runwaynext
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Luckily, there are plenty of options to be found, including designer styles from Dries Van Noten, Proenza Schouler, and Celine, whose vibrant red sneakers that first appeared on the runway have now become permanent fixtures in their collections. — Kristina Rutkowski, Vogue, 2 Sep. 2026 Since his sit-down interview with WWD in February 2025, Perrin-Faivre said dresses remain the core category, with silk gowns and runway pieces outpacing the broader dress offer. — Tianwei Zhang, Footwear News, 1 Sep. 2026 Those concerns have already moved the needle, but the long-term growth runway is still in the early stages. — Samantha Subin, CNBC, 1 Sep. 2026 The jumpship carrying Olstead taxied to the runway and took off into a sky filled with mammoth gray thunderheads. — M. R. O’Connor, New Yorker, 31 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for runway

Word History

First Known Use

1828, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of runway was in 1828

Rhymes for runway

See All Rhymes for runway

Browse Nearby Words

run upon
runway
run wild
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Runway.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/runway. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

runway

noun
run·​way ˈrən-ˌwā How to pronounce runway (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on runway

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for runway

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about runway

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