outrun

verb

out·​run ˌau̇t-ˈrən How to pronounce outrun (audio)
outran ˌau̇t-ˈran How to pronounce outrun (audio) ; outrun; outrunning
Synonyms of outrunnext

transitive verb

1
: to run faster than
2
: exceed, surpass
his ambitions outrun his abilities

Synonyms of outrun

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Examples of outrun in a Sentence

The rabbit had no chance of outrunning the dogs. His motorcycle could outrun any car on the road.
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.
Slowing down has been my way of finally listening, rather than trying to outrun the lesson. — Denielle Sachs, Forbes.com, 29 June 2026 Unable to outrun the Bitchfist, the Hand earns his reputation for cunning and courage. — Amanda Whiting, Vulture, 22 June 2026 Now, Lilith must team up with Cinderella to fight biker trolls, outrun evil henchmen, and escape the Screaming Woods. — Kevin Giraud, Variety, 23 June 2026 In other words, the MiG-25 could outrun almost anything, but doing so came with an expensive maintenance bill. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for outrun

Word History

First Known Use

1526, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of outrun was in 1526

Rhymes for outrun

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Browse Nearby Words

outrow
outrun
outrunner
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Cite this Entry

“Outrun.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/outrun. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

outrun

verb
out·​run (ˈ)au̇t-ˈrən How to pronounce outrun (audio)
outran -ˈran How to pronounce outrun (audio) ; outrun; outrunning
1
: to run or go faster than
2
: exceed sense 1
our needs outran our funds
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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