Phrase guide

run short

verb · 3 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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No pronunciation record was provided for this word.

1

verb

Meaning 1

To have used up or consumed the majority (of something), so that little remains.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: intransitive, transitive

Examples

  • How much ice cream is left? Are we running short?
  • We're running short of wine. Could you fetch some more, please?

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

verb

Meaning 2

To be nearly used up or consumed.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Examples

  • Patience is running short.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

3

verb

Meaning 3

to be spent or finished

Definition source: Princeton WordNet 3.0

Examples

  • The money had gone after a few days
  • Gas is running low at the gas stations in the Midwest

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: run low, go

Antonyms: none provided

Broader terms: end, stop, finish, terminate, cease

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.