outrun

[ out-ruhn ]

verb (used with object)

, out·ran [out-, ran], out·run, out·run·ning.

1. to run faster or farther than.
2. to escape by or as if by running:

   They managed to outrun the police.

3. to exceed; excel; surpass.

outrun

/ ˌaʊtˈrʌn /

verb

1. to run faster, farther, or better than
2. to escape from by or as if by running
3. to go beyond; exceed

Word History and Origins

Origin of outrun¹

First recorded in 1520–30; out + run

Example Sentences

Enten noted that no party outran the polls three election cycles in a row nationally or in key battleground states since 1972.

From Salon

Insulated from the harsh realities of occupation until laws limiting the freedom of Jews encroach on her town, Sara’s family makes plans to escape, though they are unable to outrun the Nazi roundups.

From Los Angeles Times

Still, she said she can’t outrun the stress of being caught between two places.

From Los Angeles Times

Oedipus may not have been able to outrun the oracle revealing that he would kill his father and marry his mother.

From Los Angeles Times

But like all great players, Morgan couldn’t outrun time.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• elude
• surpass