running
UK[ˈrʌnɪŋ]US[ˈrʌnɪŋ]
n
The action or activity of moving fast on foot.
n
The activity of managing or operating something.
adj
Operating or functioning.
adj
Continuous or recurring over a period.
Morpheme Breakdown
run
ing
run
to move swiftly
ing
present participle suffix
Etymology
The verb 'run' originates from a complex of Old English verbs meaning 'to flow' or 'to run', related to a Proto-Germanic root conveying motion. The addition of the '-ing' suffix, a common Germanic participial ending, creates a form that can function as a noun (gerund) or an adjective. As a noun, 'running' abstracts the action of the verb, while as an adjective, it describes a state of continuous operation or flow. This evolution from a verb of physical motion to terms describing management ('running a business') or continuous states ('running water') demonstrates a metaphorical extension from literal movement to abstract, sustained activity.
Analysis
Structure: run (to move swiftly) + ing (present participle suffix)
'run' is from Old English 'rinnan', 'irnan' (to flow, to run), of Germanic origin. 'ing' is a suffix from Old English '-ende' or '-inge', used to form present participles and verbal nouns.
Examples
He goes running every morning to stay fit.
The smooth running of the event was due to careful planning.
We have hot and cold running water in all rooms.