noun
runt
ruhnt
Runt (noun) means the smallest or weakest animal in a litter. Example: “The runt of the litter needed extra feeding to survive.”
noun
1
The smallest or weakest animal in a litter.
"The runt of the litter needed extra feeding to survive."
"She adopted the runt because nobody else wanted him."
2
An unimportant or looked-down-upon person, often used as an insult.
"The older kids called him a runt and pushed him around."
How to use runt
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe smallest of a group, or, used about a person, a dismissive insult about their size or status.
Common mistake
Calling a person a "runt" is usually insulting — reserve it for animals unless you intend to be rude.
Common pairings
runt of the litter
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Word forms
- Plural
- runts
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The _____ of the litter needed extra feeding to survive.
Etymology
Origin uncertain — the OED calls it "of obscure origin," possibly linked to a Middle Dutch word for "ox."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for runt
See all rhymes for runt →Frequently asked questions
What does “runt” mean?
The word “runt” means the smallest or weakest animal in a litter. In plain terms, the smallest of a group, or, used about a person, a dismissive insult about their size or status.
How do you pronounce “runt”?
“Runt” is pronounced ruhnt (/ɹʌnt/ in IPA).
How do you use “runt” in a sentence?
Here is “runt” used in a sentence: “The runt of the litter needed extra feeding to survive.”
What part of speech is “runt”?
“Runt” is a noun.
Where does the word “runt” come from?
The word “runt” comes from Dutch. Origin uncertain — the OED calls it "of obscure origin," possibly linked to a Middle Dutch word for "ox.".
How many meanings does “runt” have?
“Runt” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the smallest or weakest animal in a litter.
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