runway

American  

[ruhn-wey] / ˈrʌnˌweɪ /

noun

1. a way along which something runs.

2. a paved or cleared strip on which planes land and take off.

3. a similar strip on which cars, trucks, or the like may park, load, or enter the stream of traffic.

4. the beaten track or habitual path of deer or other wild animals.

5. a fairly large enclosure in which domestic animals may range about.

   a runway for dogs.

6. the bed of a stream.

7. Bowling. approach.

8. a narrow platform or ramp extending from a stage into the orchestra pit or into an aisle, as in a theater.

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runway British  

/ ˈrʌnˌweɪ /

noun

1. a hard level roadway or other surface from which aircraft take off and on which they land

2. an enclosure for domestic animals; run

3. forestry a chute for sliding logs down

4. a narrow ramp extending from the stage into the audience in a theatre, nightclub, etc, esp as used by models in a fashion show

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Etymology

Origin of runway

An Americanism dating back to 1825–35; run + way ¹

Example Sentences

As a fashion capital of the world, Milan used runway models dressed in green, white and red outfits designed by Giorgia Armani to represent the Italian flag.

From Los Angeles Times

At the invite-only affair for countries chosen by the International Olympic Committee, Mongolians walked the runway in uniforms that could have passed as couture.

From The Wall Street Journal

In 2025, a pilot called for changes after a similar incident, mentioning Burbank’s short runway and other nearby obstacles, including Van Nuys flights, calling it a “demanding landing environment.”

From Los Angeles Times

“We have a strong track record of growth and we have so much runway in front of us,” Barton said.

From The Wall Street Journal

British authorities say a third runway will be added at Heathrow but it is not expected to be ready before 2035.

From Barron's

Related Words

• airstrip
• path
• platform
• ramp
• road
• tarmac