runway

noun

run·​way ˈrən-ˌwā 

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

Related Stories Skydance has a tight runway through the end of 2029 to significantly pare down the long-term debt on the company’s books. — Cynthia Littleton, Variety, 5 Oct. 2026

Their 25-year operating agreement also gives the design a long runway for changing fuel technology. — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 5 Oct. 2026

Modeling the latest designs from Miu Miu, Vivienne Westwood and more, celebrities, rock stars and It Girls of the past and present hit the runway sporting fresh styles from major labels and fashion houses. — Julia Teti, Footwear News, 5 Oct. 2026

While the outfits certainly made a statement, the opportunity to walk down the runway meant quite a lot to Ciara. — Alicia Urrea, Billboard, 5 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1828, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for runway

• airway
• allay
• archway
• array
• ashtray
• assez
• astray
• aue
• away
• ballet
• belay
• beltway

Kids Definition

runway

noun

run·​way ˈrən-ˌwā 

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