Runny Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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runny
[ˈrʌni ]
Definition
medical condition
Runny is commonly used to describe a liquid that is flowing or easily discharged, particularly in reference to bodily fluids. It often refers to a condition where mucus is excessively produced, leading to a discharge from the nose or eyes. For instance, a runny nose can be a symptom of allergies or a common cold. The term can also be used to describe the consistency of certain foods that are not solid, such as runny eggs. Overall, 'runny' conveys the idea of something that is not firm or solid but rather fluid.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He had a runny nose all day.
- She couldn't eat her breakfast because the eggs were runny.
- After the rain, the ground was runny and muddy.
- The baby’s nose is always runny during allergy season.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Health
- A runny nose is often caused by allergies or colds, as the body produces extra mucus to fight germs.
- There are many home remedies, like staying hydrated, to reduce the symptoms of a runny nose.
- Children commonly experience runny noses because their immune systems are still developing.
Everyday Life
- Many foods can be described as runny, like runny eggs or broth, which enhances their enjoyment.
- Understanding the consistency of ingredients (such as a runny sauce) is crucial in cooking for flavor balance.
- People use 'runny' to describe not just food and liquids, but also to convey emotions, like tears that run down your face.
Pop Culture
- In children's cartoons, characters with runny noses often invoke humor, showcasing exaggerated reactions.
- Songs about being sick sometimes include mentions of a runny nose as part of funny or relatable lyrics.
- In an online context, 'runny' memes often depict characters with exaggerated facial expressions of sickness.
Science
- Fluid dynamics is the study of how runny substances move; this field helps understand weather patterns and river flows.
- The viscosity of a substance determines how 'runny' it is; lower viscosity means it flows more easily.
- Runny liquids are often used in experiments to show physical changes, like when heat alters the state of a material.
Origin of 'runny'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'runny' originates from the verb 'run', which means to flow or move quickly.
- It has been used since the late 19th century to describe liquids that flow easily.
- Before 'runny' became common, people often described similar textures using terms like 'fluid' or 'liquid'.
The word 'runny' has its origins in the Old English word 'rinnan', which means 'to run'. This root connects to various Germanic languages, where similar forms are found, indicating movement or flow. Over time, 'runny' began to specifically describe the quality of a liquid that flows easily or uncontrollably. The adaptation of the term to describe specific conditions, particularly in medicine, likely arose in the 19th century during the development of medical terminology. The use of 'runny' has since expanded to describe various states, including culinary contexts, hence its versatility in modern English.