What does runt mean?
A runt is a person or animal that is notably smaller, weaker, or less developed than others. The word can describe the smallest or frailest member of a litter of animals, as in a puppy described as a runt, and it can also characterize a physically underdeveloped person. In figurative use, “political runt” or “mere runt” conveys contempt for someone considered insignificant or powerless. Though it may sound blunt or harsh when applied to people, the expression is vivid and widely understood. It is especially useful when describing a conspicuously small member of a group or conveying the idea that someone has little influence or importance.
nounA person or animal that is unusually small, weak, or underdeveloped, especially when regarded with contempt. The word is often used figuratively to describe someone as insignificant or unimportant.
- A person or animal that is unusually small, weak, or underdeveloped.
- A person regarded as insignificant, unimportant, or contemptible.
"The runt of the litter was soon more assertive than the other puppies."
"The smallest puppy, a nervous runt, hid beneath the sofa."
"Critics dismissed the young senator as a political runt."
The standard plural is “runts.”
"Several runts remained at the back of the flock."
From the smallest member of a litter to the most insignificant person in a group, “runt” turns the idea of being undersized into a vivid judgment.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does runt come from?
The origin of “runt” is uncertain. The word is recorded in English by the early modern period and appears especially in northern British usage for an undersized or weakly developed animal or person. Its precise development is not securely known, and it should not be confidently connected with a particular continental language or unrelated word.
How runt is actually used
The word is commonly disparaging when applied to a person, especially to suggest insignificance or lack of influence. Its use for an undersized animal is usually less hostile but can still sound dismissive.
Easily confused with runt
A runt is an undersized or weak person or animal, while a run is an act of moving quickly or the distance covered in doing so.
A runt is a person or animal considered small or insignificant, whereas a rant is a prolonged, loud, or emphatic speech.