Runoff: meaning, definitions and examples

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runoff

 

[ ˈrʌnˌɔf ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

election result

A runoff is a second round of voting that is held when no candidate receives a majority of the votes in an initial election. The two candidates with the most votes from the first round compete in the runoff to determine the winner.

Synonyms

second round, tiebreaker

Examples of usage

  • The runoff election will take place next week.
  • If no candidate receives over 50% of the votes, there will be a runoff.
  • The runoff will be between the top two candidates.
Context #2 | Noun

water

Runoff refers to water from rain, snowmelt, or irrigation that flows over the surface of the ground. It can pick up pollutants and carry them into rivers, lakes, and oceans.

Synonyms

drainage, surface water flow

Examples of usage

  • The heavy rainfall caused a lot of runoff in the streets.
  • The runoff from the fields is polluting the nearby river.
  • Preventing runoff is important for water quality.

Word origin

The term 'runoff' originated in the mid-19th century, combining 'run' and 'off'. It was first used in the context of water flow and was later adapted to describe election processes. The concept of runoff elections dates back to ancient Greece, where a two-round system was used to ensure majority support for the winning candidate.

See also: outrun, overrun, run, runaway, runnable, runner, runners, running, runs, runtime, runway.