run-through

American  

[ruhn-throo] / ˈrʌnˌθru /

noun

1. the performing of a sequence of designated actions, especially as a trial prior to actual performance; rehearsal; practice.

2. a quick outline or review.

   a run-through of his medical history.

---

adjective

1. (of a freight train) made up of cars for a single destination, usually routed so as to avoid congested areas and stopping only for a change of crew.

run through British  

verb

1. (tr, adverb) to transfix with a sword or other weapon

2. (intr, preposition) to exhaust (money) by wasteful spending; squander

3. (intr, preposition) to practise or rehearse

   let's run through the plan

4. (intr, preposition) to examine hastily

---

noun

1. a practice or rehearsal

2. a brief survey

run through Idioms  

1. Pierce, as in The soldier was run through by a bayonet . [c. 1400]

2. Use up quickly, as in She ran through her allowance in no time . [c. 1600]

3. Practice, review or rehearse quickly, as in Let's run through the first movement again , or The crew ran through the rescue procedures , or The attorney ran through the defense witness's testimony . [Mid-1400s]

---

Etymology

Origin of run-through

First recorded in 1920–25; noun use of verb phrase run through

Example Sentences

The mishaps during a run-through that the US space agency calls a "wet dress rehearsal" dashed hopes that the mission around the Moon could launch as soon as Sunday.

From Barron's • Feb. 3, 2026

We’ve done a run-through or two, and it’s exhausting.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 17, 2025

Briton Caudery, the 2024 world indoor champion, rolled her ankle in the warm-up after she planted her left foot into the landing mat after a run-through.

From BBC • Sep. 15, 2025

After sitting around all week at rehearsals with little direction, Crystal performed it at a Friday run-through — and it killed.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 11, 2024

"They need a run-through without me. Otherwise, they may mutiny. We'll do the dress a little later tonight."

From "Will Grayson, Will Grayson" by John Green and David Levithan