1
British
: the final part of a race or racetrack
2
3
: something inserted as a substantial addition in copy or typeset matter
ran in; run in; running in; runs in
1
a
: to insert as additional matter
b
: to make (typeset matter) continuous without a paragraph or other break
2
: to arrest for a usually minor offense
3
chiefly British
: to break in (a new machine) gradually by careful operation
: to pay a casual visit
Examples of run-in in a Sentence
Noun
the rival gangs had a bit of a run-in last night
Verb
I just thought I'd run in and pick up my package.
if we catch you shoplifting again, we're going to run you in
Recent Examples on the Web
Alyce Collins, Newsweek, 22 Feb. 2025
Trump also had a direct run-in with NOAA during his first term.
—Umair Irfan, Vox, 21 Feb. 2025
Glenn Garner, Deadline, 1 Mar. 2025
Florida first lady Casey DeSantis, the wife of Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL), hinted at a gubernatorial run in 2026.
—Annabella Rosciglione, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 1 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for run-in
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Noun
Despite the potential run-ins with rats and the constant tourists, Mack couldn't be more grateful for the chance to turn her dream into a reality.
—Alyce Collins, Newsweek, 22 Feb. 2025
Trump also had a direct run-in with NOAA during his first term.
—Umair Irfan, Vox, 21 Feb. 2025
Verb
The actress also played Matron ‘Mama’ Morton during a 2003 run in Broadway’s Chicago.
—Glenn Garner, Deadline, 1 Mar. 2025
Florida first lady Casey DeSantis, the wife of Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL), hinted at a gubernatorial run in 2026.
—Annabella Rosciglione, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 1 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for run-in
Cite this Entry
“Run-in.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/run-in. Accessed 5 Mar. 2025.
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