run
UK[rʌn]US[rʌn]
v
to move using your legs, going faster than when you walk
v
to operate or function
v
to flow or spread
n
an act or period of running
n
a continuous series or sequence
n
a point scored in baseball or cricket
Etymology
The verb 'run' originates from the Old English 'rinnan', 'irnan' (to run, flow), and 'ærnan' (to ride, cause to run), which are derived from the Proto-Germanic rinnaną (to run). This Germanic root is further traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root h₃erH- (to move, set in motion). The semantic journey from its ancient meaning of general motion evolved to specify rapid, legged locomotion. Over centuries, its meaning broadened metaphorically to encompass the operation of machines (as if they are 'moving'), the flow of liquids, and the management or organization of activities, capturing a core concept of continuous, directed movement or progress.
Analysis
The word 'run' is a simplex word of Germanic origin. It is not productively composed of smaller, separable morphemes in modern English.
Examples
She can run very fast.
The engine runs on diesel.
The colors might run if you wash that shirt in hot water.