RUN OFF Meaning and
Definition
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Run off can be used as a noun or verb, and it has multiple definitions depending on the context.
As a verb, "run off" refers to the action of physically departing quickly from a place or situation. It can also mean to cause a liquid or substance to flow rapidly and uncontrollably, typically from a specific location. In this sense, run off often describes the overflowing of water from a river, lake, or drain due to excessive rainfall or melting snow.
Run off can also denote the act of participating in a race or competition, specifically if it involves running. It implies engaging in a contest to determine the winner or the order of finish for multiple participants.
As a noun, run off can refer to the occurrence and consequences of water escaping or overflowing from its usual course, such as surface water runoff after heavy rain.
In a political context, run off refers to a second election between the two candidates who received the highest number of votes in the initial election. It typically occurs when no candidate attains an absolute majority the first time.
Moreover, run off can also be used idiomatically to describe the process of making a physical copy of something using a printer or photocopy machine. This usage is often found in offices and refers to producing additional copies of a document or image.
Common Misspellings for RUN OFF
- eun off
- dun off
- fun off
- tun off
- 5un off
- 4un off
- ryn off
- rhn off
- rjn off
- rin off
- r8n off
- r7n off
- rum off
- run iff
- run kff
- run lff
- run pff
- run 0ff
- run 9ff
Etymology of RUN OFF
The word "run off" has multiple meanings and therefore different etymologies depending on the context. Here are the origins of two common uses:
1. "Run off" meaning to leave quickly or hurriedly:
This usage has its roots in the Old English word "rinnan", which means "to flow". Over time, "rinnan" transformed into Middle English "runnen" and eventually became the modern English verb "run". The addition of "off" emphasizes the directionality, intensifying the sense of quick departure.
2. "Run off" meaning the process of printing copies:
In the context of printing, "run off" originates from the early days of printing presses when ink was spread onto a plate, and the plate was pressed onto paper to transfer the image. The ink was said to "run off" the plate onto the paper, thus giving rise to the term.
Idioms with the word RUN OFF
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run off with
The idiom "run off with" means to elope or leave suddenly with someone, typically without the knowledge or approval of others involved, such as a spouse or partner. It implies an unexpected or secretive departure with another person, often involving an illicit or romantic relationship.
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run off at the mouth
The idiom "run off at the mouth" means to talk excessively or ramble on without considering the consequences or the impact of one's words. It implies speaking too much and often saying things that may not be well-thought-out, inappropriate, or without considering the listener's interest.
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be run off feet
The idiom "be run off feet" means to be extremely busy or overwhelmed with tasks, to the point of feeling physically or mentally exhausted. It implies a sense of being constantly rushed or constantly engaged in various activities without a moment to rest or catch up.
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run off sth
The idiom "run off something" means to quickly or hastily produce or create something, often in large quantities or without careful consideration or planning. It can also refer to making a quick copy or printing of something.
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run off (with sm)
The idiom "run off (with sm)" means to leave unexpectedly or hurriedly with someone, usually taking them away from a current situation or relationship without permission or consultation. It suggests a sense of impulsive behavior or elopement.
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run off with sth
The idiom "run off with something" generally means to take something away quickly and usually secretly, often implying a theft or escape.
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run off with sb
The idiom "run off with someone" is used to describe the act of leaving a current partner, spouse, or significant other to be with another person, often implying that the departure is sudden or unexpected.
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run off with sm or sth
The idiom "run off with someone or something" means to leave or elope with someone or something unexpectedly and often without permission or prior notice. It can refer to a romantic partner leaving a relationship for someone else or to stealing or taking something that belongs to someone and fleeing with it.
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be run off (one's) feet
The idiom "be run off one's feet" means to be extremely busy or overwhelmed with a lot of work or tasks. It implies being rushed or having a heavy workload that keeps someone constantly occupied, leaving them with little or no leisure time.
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be run off your feet
To be run off your feet means to be extremely busy or overwhelmed with tasks or responsibilities, to the point of feeling rushed or unable to keep up with the workload. It suggests being so occupied that one is constantly on the move, running from one thing to another.
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run off in all directions
The idiom "run off in all directions" means to scatter or disperse in various, often unorganized or chaotic, ways. It refers to a situation or action where a group or set of things goes in different directions, without any clear focus or pattern.
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be rushed/run off your feet
To be rushed or run off your feet means to be extremely busy or overwhelmed with tasks and responsibilities.
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run off
To leave quickly or suddenly; to escape or flee.
Similar spelling words for RUN OFF
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