runner-up

noun

run·​ner-up ˈrə-nər-ˌəp How to pronounce runner-up (audio)
ˌrə-nər-ˈəp
plural runners-up ˈrə-nərz-ˌəp How to pronounce runner-up (audio)
ˌrə-nərz-ˈəp
 also runner-ups
: the competitor that does not win first place in a contest
especially : one that finishes in second place

Examples of runner-up in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Myla Hadley, the first runner-up, will now assume the title and move forward at the Miss USA pageant later this month, organizers confirmed. — Anthony Robledo, USA Today, 8 Aug. 2026 The bus, manufactured in Fort Valley, beat out runner-up TifTuf drought-tolerant Bermuda grass in a final round. — Aj Willingham, AJC.com, 7 Aug. 2026 After forming a yellow pool in the river, the ducks floated for around 15 minutes before a winner and runner-up were plucked from the water. — Cybele Mayes-Osterman, ABC News, 6 Aug. 2026 The film is inspired by Marissa Chibás’ upbringing as the daughter of a commander in the Cuban Revolution and as a Miss Cuba runner-up. — Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 6 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for runner-up

Word History

First Known Use

1859, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of runner-up was in 1859

Rhymes for runner-up

See All Rhymes for runner-up

Browse Nearby Words

runner stick
runner-up
runnet
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Runner-up.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/runner-up. Accessed 12 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

runner-up

noun
run·​ner-up
ˈrən-ə-ˌrəp
plural runners-up
: the competitor in a contest who finishes next to the winner

More from Merriam-Webster on runner-up

Nglish: Translation of runner-up for Spanish Speakers

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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