run in the family
To be a characteristic feature that is observed in several generations of a family.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“Musical talent seems to run in the family.”
“Everyone in her household is very tall, so it clearly runs in the family.”
“Given that a sharp wit and a love for literature run in the family, it was no surprise when she published her first novel at twenty.”
- 01
break into a run
To start running.
- 02
common run
Ordinary persons, things, or events.
- 03
dry run
A practice or rehearsal; especially, one that goes through all the motions of a physical process but without the raw material or workpiece present.
- 04
dummy run
A trial or practice before the real attempt.
- 05
family jewels
The testicles.
- 06
good run
Success over an extended period.
- 07
hit and run
A road accident in which a driver hits someone and then drives away without stopping to help or take responsibility.
- 08
hold with the hare and run with the hounds
To oppose an action or behavior and yet engage in the same action or behavior; to be a hypocrite.
Last updated August 10, 2026