ENGLISH
REFERENCE

runway

n.
US //ˈɹənˌweɪ// UK //ɹˈʌnweɪ// run·way
  1. 1 for aircraft (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    a long, hard surface at an airport where planes take off and land.

    a defined rectangular area on a land aerodrome prepared for the landing and take-off of aircraft.

    Example

    The pilot waited for permission from the tower before moving the plane onto the runway.

    Example

    Heavy snowfall forced the airport authorities to close the main runway for several hours while de-icing crews cleared the tarmac.

  2. 2 fashion/modelling (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Theatre

    a narrow platform that models walk along during a fashion show.

    a narrow walkway, often elevated, extending from a stage into an auditorium, used by models to display garments.

    Example

    The models walked down the runway wearing the designer's new spring collection.

    Example

    The fashion house opted for a minimalist runway design to ensure the audience remained focused entirely on the intricate textures of the clothing.

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  1. 3 business finance (n.)
    C1 Advanced Informal Technical

    the amount of time a new company can keep operating before it runs out of money.

    the amount of time a startup can remain solvent assuming its current spending and income levels remain constant.

    Example

    The company has about six months of runway left to find a new investor.

    Example

    By reducing monthly overheads, the founders managed to extend their runway, giving the engineering team more time to finalise the product launch.

    • cash runway
  2. 4 athletics (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Sport

    a short track where athletes run to gain speed before a jump or throw.

    a designated track used by athletes to build momentum prior to a jump or a javelin throw.

    Example

    The long jumper sprinted down the runway and took off perfectly from the board.

    Example

    The official noticed a slight tear in the synthetic surface of the runway, which could have compromised the athletes' grip during the approach.

    • approach track
Origin

From run + way.

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