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Definitions

test run

[test ruhn] / ˈtɛst ˌrʌn /
NOUN
dry run
Synonyms
STRONGEST
dress rehearsal tryout
WEAK
bench test combat rehearsal dummy run kriegspiel maneuver maneuvers practical test practice exercise practice run rehearsal road test run through test performance trial trial run war game
NOUN
trial
Synonyms
STRONGEST
effort examination experiment investigation probation struggle testing
STRONG
analysis assay attempt audition check crack endeavor essay experience experimentation fling go hassle lick proof shakedown shot showcase stab striving try tryout undertaking venture whack workout
WEAK
R and D dry run research and development trial and error trial run

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.

It took years of tinkering in the minors and a test run during the exhibition slate last season before league officials settled on an answer.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 2026

Your early 60s is a test run for retirement, U.S.

From MarketWatch • Dec. 11, 2025

Both events were also held at SoFi Stadium and served as a test run for the World Cup’s 28-day run in Inglewood.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 2, 2025

Instead, it’s a test run for everything that will happen next year.

From Slate • Dec. 2, 2025

When the kidding was done, however, the men gave the motor sledge a test run.

From "Shipwreck at the Bottom of the World" by Jennifer Armstrong

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.