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

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

The last time Verstappen was beaten by a team-mate was at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in April 2023, when Sergio Perez claimed victory and he finished runner-up.

From BBC • Mar. 2, 2026

“My sister was a runner-up a few years ago. Guess you could say it’s in my genes.”

From "Dumplin'" by Julie Murphy