Runoff Meaning in English
word
Definition
Water that flows over the surface of the land, often after rain, or a further election held to decide a winner because no one received a majority.
Usage & Nuances
Technical in geography/weather (water meaning) and politics (elections). In elections, 'runoff' refers to a second round between top candidates. 'Runoff water' is environmental, not sports-related. Don't confuse with 'run off' (the verb: to escape/flee).
Example Sentences
The heavy rain caused a lot of runoff on the streets.
basic
Farmers worry that runoff from fields will pollute the river.
basic
There will be a runoff next week because no one won the election.
basic
Urban areas often have more runoff because there are fewer plants to soak up the water.
natural
Neither candidate got enough votes, so the race is headed to a runoff.
natural
If too much fertilizer gets into the runoff, it can create big problems for local lakes.
natural