Runaway

A runaway can refer to several distinct scenarios. Primarily, it describes someone, especially a child or adolescent, who has left their home without permission and intends to stay away, often due to problems or conflicts within the family. It can also describe something that has escaped control or is accelerating rapidly, such as a runaway inflation or a runaway train. Furthermore, it can depict a decisive victory, often in a competition or election, signifying an overwhelming win. Lastly, it can describe someone who runs away with another, especially to get married against their families' wishes, connoting elopement.

Runaway meaning with examples

• The police issued an alert after a 15-year-old girl was reported as a runaway; they were concerned for her safety and wellbeing, hoping to bring her back home. They were especially worried about her falling into bad company after leaving her parents home.
• After the government's poor handling of the economy, the nation was in fear of runaway inflation; with prices of everyday items skyrocketing, people struggled to afford basic necessities, fearing more hardships to come and financial instability.
• The underdog unexpectedly secured a runaway victory in the election, surpassing all expectations and securing a massive lead over their opponent, leaving the entire nation surprised by the outcome of the election.
• The young lovers decided to be runaways and elope, unable to get their parents to consent to their marriage; their love for each other fueled their decision, leaving them both uncertain but excited for the future ahead.