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.

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 2003, he showed up as a guest judge on the second season of “American Idol,” declaring its runner-up Clay Aiken was “ear delicious.”

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 27, 2026

Alex Marquez finished last season as runner-up and he could well challenge his brother for the title again in a field packed with talent.

From Barron's • Feb. 25, 2026

She might have won first place the last four years, but my runner-up status was nothing to sneeze at.

From "Sir Fig Newton and the Science of Persistence" by Sonja Thomas