runner-up

[ruhn-er-uhp] / ˈrʌn ərˈʌp /

ADJECTIVE

second

Synonyms

STRONG

alternative double duplicate extra following further inferior lower place repeated reproduction secondary succeeding supporting twin

WEAK

additional another lesser next in order other subsequent unimportant

Antonyms

STRONG

first-class first-rate important superior

NOUN

second

Synonyms

STRONGEST

double

STRONG

assistant backer exponent helper placer proponent reproduction supporter twin

Antonyms

STRONG

opponent

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The season was chock-full of cameos from celebrities like Billie Eilish and Sia, and included former “Survivor” runner-up and “White Lotus” creator Mike White as a contestant.

From Los Angeles Times • May 21, 2026

Since the Southern Section uses computer rankings, you have the strange situation of Trinity League runner-up Orange Lutheran getting seeded ahead of Trinity League champion St. John Bosco.

From Los Angeles Times • May 8, 2026

The world number two now occupies that final qualifying berth after his runner-up finish and quarter-final defeats for Gerwyn Price and Van Gerwen.

From BBC • May 7, 2026

After playing 12 matches in Australia in January - winning the title in Brisbane and finishing runner-up at the Australian Open - Sabalenka skipped both of February's WTA 1000 events in the Middle East.

From BBC • May 6, 2026

“You know what they say — the first runner-up is important in case anything should happen to Miss Teen Dream,” Shanti called.

From "Beauty Queens" by Libba Bray

runner-up

Example Sentences

Related Words