# run high

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/run-high
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Of a river, to experience a strong current and be full and close to overflowing.

## Examples

- The river waters run high after the heavy rain.
- The local authorities warned residents to stay away from the banks because the river waters run high this season.
- Following the relentless spring storms, the mountain streams run high, threatening to breach the stone walls of the ancient village.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.