outrun
UK: aʊtˈrʌn | US: aʊtˈrʌn
vt. to run faster or farther than someone or something
vt. to exceed or surpass in achievement, scope, or effect
The word "outrun" combines the Old English prefix "out-" (meaning "beyond" or "externally") with the verb "run," derived from Proto-Germanic *rinnaną ("to flow, run"). The compound emerged in Middle English (c. 1300) to literally describe surpassing someone in a race, later extending metaphorically to surpassing limits or expectations. The logic mirrors physical motion ("running beyond") applied to abstract competition or achievement.
The cheetah can easily outrun most land animals.
Her ambition outran her practical skills.
Inflation has outrun wage increases this year.
He trained hard to outrun his previous marathon time.
Technology advancements often outrun regulatory frameworks.