English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com
noun Very common

runs

ruhnz

Runs (noun) means informal term for diarrhea. Example: “He was stuck home with the runs after the food truck lunch.”

noun
1
Informal term for diarrhea.
"He was stuck home with the runs after the food truck lunch."

How to use runs

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA casual, everyday way of saying someone has diarrhea.

When to use it

Informal — used in casual speech, not medical or formal writing.

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “runs” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

He was stuck home with the _____ after the food truck lunch.

Etymology

Likely alludes to how someone with this condition has to run to the bathroom frequently.

diarrhea loose bowels upset stomach the trots loose stools

Related words

Rhymes for runs

See all rhymes for runs →

Frequently asked questions

What does “runs” mean?

The word “runs” means informal term for diarrhea. In plain terms, a casual, everyday way of saying someone has diarrhea.

How do you pronounce “runs”?

“Runs” is pronounced ruhnz (/ɹʌnz/ in IPA).

How do you use “runs” in a sentence?

Here is “runs” used in a sentence: “He was stuck home with the runs after the food truck lunch.”

What part of speech is “runs”?

“Runs” is a noun.

Is “runs” a common word?

“Runs” is a very common word in modern English.

What does 'the runs' mean?

'The runs' is an informal, everyday term for diarrhea, meaning frequent, loose bowel movements. People use it in casual conversation to avoid the more clinical word. It is mild rather than crude, but because it is slang, it suits chats with friends more than formal or medical writing.

Is 'the runs' a formal term?

No. It is colloquial slang, fine for casual conversation but out of place in medical or professional settings, where 'diarrhea' is the correct term. Similar informal expressions include 'the trots' or an 'upset stomach'. For a doctor's appointment or a written record, the clinical word is always the safer choice.

What causes the runs?

Common causes include stomach bugs from viruses or bacteria, food that disagrees with you, food poisoning, certain medicines, and stress. It is usually short-lived and clears on its own with rest and fluids. If it is severe or lasts more than a few days, it is worth seeing a doctor.

Featured in

People also searched

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial