# outrun

/aʊˈtɹən/ (US) · /aʊtɹˈʌn/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/outrun
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

to run faster than someone or something else. You use this when you are trying to get away from a pursuer or a dangerous situation.

For teachers: to run faster than another person or thing; to escape from a pursuer by speed. Transitive — requires a direct object representing the person or thing being outpaced.

## Examples

- He tried to outrun the dog but failed.
- The hikers had to outrun the approaching storm to reach the safety of the valley.
- Despite his best efforts to outrun the advancing tide, the small fishing boat was eventually swept away by the powerful currents of the rising sea.

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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.