Runway: meaning, definitions and examples

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runway

 

[ ˈrʌnweɪ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

aviation

A runway is a strip of land at an airport on which an aircraft can take off or land. It is typically flat and long enough to accommodate the needs of various types of aircraft.

Synonyms

airport runway, airstrip, landing strip.

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Word Description / Examples
runway

This term is commonly used in the context of commercial airports and general aviation to describe the platform where airplanes take off and land. It is also used in fashion to describe the stage where models walk during fashion shows.

  • The airplane prepared for takeoff on the runway.
  • The new collection will be showcased on the runway.
landing strip

This term is used similarly to 'airstrip,' often depicting a basic or minimalistic runway. It's frequently used in general or colloquial speech rather than technical jargon.

  • The pilot sought an emergency landing strip.
  • Their farm had a makeshift landing strip for crop dusters.
airstrip

This term is often used to describe a simple, usually unpaved, runway in a more rural or remote location. It can be found in smaller airfields and is often associated with private or less formal aviation activities.

  • The bush pilot landed on a remote airstrip.
  • The island has a small airstrip for emergency landings.
airport runway

This term is specifically used to highlight that the runway is part of an airport. It can be used to emphasize the location within an airport setting.

  • The maintenance team was working on the airport runway.
  • Clearances were given for the plane to use the airport runway.

Examples of usage

  • The airplane taxied to the end of the runway before taking off.
  • The runway was cleared of snow to ensure safe landings and takeoffs.
  • Air traffic control directed the pilot to the assigned runway for landing.
Context #2 | Noun

fashion

A runway is a narrow platform on which models walk to display clothing and accessories during a fashion show. It is often elevated and provides a space for designers to showcase their latest collections.

Synonyms

catwalk, fashion show stage.

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Word Description / Examples
runway

Typically used in the context of airports or fashion shows, referring to the strip where airplanes take off and land, or where models walk to display clothing.

  • The pilot aligned the plane with the runway for takeoff.
  • The model confidently strutted down the runway in the latest designer outfit.
catwalk

Used exclusively in the context of fashion shows to describe the narrow, elevated platform that models walk down to showcase clothing and accessories.

  • Designers packed the catwalk with vibrant, colorful patterns this season.
  • She felt like a star as she walked the catwalk.
fashion show stage

Refers to the general area or platform where a fashion show takes place, which can include the runway or catwalk and additional stage elements.

  • The fashion show stage was elaborate, with impressive lighting and decorations.
  • Organizers made sure the fashion show stage was ready for the big event.

Examples of usage

  • The models strutted down the runway, showcasing the designer's new line of dresses.
  • The runway was adorned with lights and music to create a captivating fashion show.
  • The fashion designer carefully selected the models to walk the runway.

Translations

Translations of the word "runway" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pista de decolagem

🇮🇳 रनवे

🇩🇪 Startbahn

🇮🇩 landasan pacu

🇺🇦 злітно-посадкова смуга

🇵🇱 pas startowy

🇯🇵 滑走路 (かっそうろ)

🇫🇷 piste de décollage

🇪🇸 pista de despegue

🇹🇷 pist

🇰🇷 활주로

🇸🇦 مدرج الإقلاع

🇨🇿 vzletová dráha

🇸🇰 vzletová dráha

🇨🇳 跑道 (pǎodào)

🇸🇮 vzletno-pristajalna steza

🇮🇸 flugbraut

🇰🇿 ұшу-қону жолағы

🇬🇪 გაფრენის ზოლი

🇦🇿 uçuş-enmə zolağı

🇲🇽 pista de despegue

Etymology

The term 'runway' originated from aviation, where it referred to the strip of land used by aircraft for takeoff and landing. Over time, the term was adopted in the fashion industry to describe the platform on which models showcase clothing during fashion shows. The dual usage of 'runway' highlights its versatility across different fields.

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

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,167, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.