runner-up
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.
Last year, South Carolina had been national runner-up.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 2026
Aiken rose to fame as the earnest, vocally gifted runner-up on “American Idol” circa 2003.
From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 26, 2026
Australian Open champion Elena Rybakina, runner-up to world number one Aryna Sabalenka at Indian Wells earlier this month, set up a quarter-final against fifth seed Jessica Pegula.
From BBC • Mar. 25, 2026
In Paris, the race is looking tight between leftist Emmanuel Gregoire, a former deputy of outgoing Socialist mayor Anne Hidalgo, and his runner-up, right-wing ex-minister Rachida Dati.
From Barron's • Mar. 22, 2026
This is the woman who is first runner-up to Vanessa Williams!
From "Like Vanessa" by Tami Charles
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From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.