Runt Meaning and Definition
Runt
Pronunciation
/rʌnt/
Part of Speech
Noun or Adjective
Definition
A Runt is a small or underdeveloped animal, especially a pig, chicken, or duck, that is inferior in size or quality to others of the same kind.
Examples
- Among the litter of puppies, one was clearly the runt.
- The farmhand noticed that one of the chicks was the runt of the batch.
Synonyms
- Weakling
- Weanling
Antonyms
- Winner
- Champion
Etymology
The word “runt” comes from Old English “runt”, meaning “weak” or “puny”. It has been used since the 14th century to describe an animal that is smaller or less developed than its peers.
Usage Notes
The word “Runt” is often used to describe an animal that is below average in size or quality, but it can also be used figuratively to describe someone or something that is perceived as weak or inferior.
Cultural References
The term “runt” has been used in popular culture to describe an underdog or an outsider. For example, the main character in the movie “The Runt” (2016) is a misfit who finds his place in the world.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Having the greatest runt of the litter, meaning having the best or most talented child.
Related Words or Phrases
- Weanling
- Puny
- Weakling
Collocations
- Runt pig
- Runt chick
Frequency of Use
The word “Runt” is not commonly used in modern language, but it still appears in agricultural and farm contexts.
Common Misspellings
Gerbera, Gerber, Runna, Runtly