a run on (something)

a run on (something)

A large, sudden, and widespread demand for something. I'm sorry, we had a run on the chocolate cheesecake this afternoon, so I'm afraid we're out. There's always a run on bed linens when the college students move back into town for a new semester.See also: on, run

run on

1. Literally, to continue to travel by running. I really didn't want to talk to her, so I pretended like I didn't see her and just ran on. Don't stop if you start getting a cramp—slow down, but keep running on.2. To continue being presented, performed, or operated, especially longer than expected or desired. I know the presentation ran on a little too long, but I think we covered some valuable topics. The trial ran on for months as the prosecution brought forward hundreds of pieces of evidence and dozens of witness.See also: on, run

run on

 1. to continue running. I wanted to stop her and ask her something, but she just ran on. The joggers had a chance to stop and rest, but they just ran on. 2. to continue on for a long time. The lecture ran on and bored everyone to tears. How long is this symphony likely to run on?See also: on, run

run on

1. Keep going, continue; also, remain in effect. For example, That murder trial has been running on for months, or How much longer can this debt be allowed to run on? [Late 1500s] 2. Talk at length; see go on, def. 5. 3. Continue a text without a break; see run in, def. 2. See also: on, run

run on

v.1. To continue for a long time: That movie ran on too long.2. To talk or complain excessively about something: He is always running on about his tax problems.3. To continue a text without a formal break: The editor marked all of the instances where the text ran on incorrectly.4. To operate using something as a source of power: This new car runs on electricity.See also: on, run