Definitions

run-down

[ruhn-doun] / ˈrʌnˈdaʊn /

ADJECTIVE

shabby, in bad shape

Synonyms

STRONGEST

broken-down crumbling decrepit derelict deserted desolate dilapidated dingy neglected ramshackle rickety seedy tacky

WEAK

abandoned beat-up below par debilitated dog-eared down-at-the-heel drained enervated exhausted fatigued forsaken frowzy in a bad way old out of condition peaked ratty tattered tired tumble-down uncared-for under the weather unhealthy untended used up weak weary worn-out

Antonyms

STRONGEST

nice populated sound stable used

WEAK

OK fresh good healthy

run down

VERB

ridicule

Synonyms

STRONGEST

knock

WEAK

belittle criticize decry defame denigrate depreciate derogate detract diminish disparage dispraise downcry make fun of opprobriate revile speak ill of vilify

Antonyms

WEAK

praise

ADJECTIVE

shabby, in bad shape

Synonyms

STRONGEST

broken-down crumbling decrepit derelict deserted desolate dilapidated dingy neglected ramshackle rickety seedy tacky

WEAK

abandoned beat up below par debilitated dog-eared down-at-the-heel drained enervated exhausted fatigued forsaken frowzy in a bad way old out of condition peaked ratty tattered tired tumble-down uncared-for under the weather unhealthy untended used-up weak weary worn-out

Antonyms

STRONGEST

nice populated sound stable used

WEAK

OK fresh good healthy

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.

But the Strait of Hormuz closure means those stockpiles have likely been run down.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 29, 2026

But when he opened the door, he looked disheveled, like he had stood up from his desk and run down the hall.

From Salon • May 27, 2026

Doku had seen his run down the left flank abruptly ended by Keane.

From BBC • May 5, 2026

His replacement Ordaz put the game to rest, slotting in from a mazy run down the left and low cross by Bouanga.

From Barron's • Feb. 22, 2026

Martin wouldn’t bring his eyes to meet Moss, and Shamika’s mascara had started to run down her cheeks.

From "Anger Is a Gift" by Mark Oshiro