run-in
|run/in|
B2
/ˈrʌnˌɪn/
brief encounter or argument
Etymology
Etymology Information
'run-in' originates from the combination of 'run' and 'in', where 'run' meant 'to move swiftly' and 'in' indicated 'inside or within'.
Historical Evolution
'run-in' evolved from the phrase 'run in', which was used in the 19th century to describe a sudden or unexpected encounter.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to enter quickly', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a brief encounter or argument'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a disagreement or argument, often unexpected or brief.
They had a run-in with the manager over the new policy.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/02/15 18:21