dead run

noun

1. a steady run at top speed:

   The centerfielder caught the ball on the dead run.

Word History and Origins

Origin of dead run¹

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

Without a thought, Jack yanked his sword out of its scabbard and took off at a dead run right into the heart of the Black Forest, the sword’s glow lighting his way.

From Literature

In winning with will, stalwart defense and one sensational forehand winner on the dead run that electrified the crowd in the second set, the lefty Kvitova captured her 30th WTA singles title of a distinguished career.

From Seattle Times

For 14 months, officers from the high-profile Scorpion unit of the Memphis Police Department patrolled city streets with an air of menace, zooming up on targets, jumping out of their Dodge Chargers at a dead run, shouting at people to get out of their vehicles, lie down on the ground.

From New York Times

On a dead run, he juggled it like a sleight-of-hand performer.

From Washington Post

He threw the game-winning touchdown pass on a dead run after evading a fierce Temple pass rush.

From Seattle Times