runaway

Runaway is a term with several related senses in English. As a noun, it most commonly refers to a person who leaves home, school, or another institution without permission, often a child or adolescent. Runaway youths may be at heightened risk of harm, exploitation, or trafficking, and social responses include crisis hotlines, shelters, and services aimed at reunification with families or safe placement. As an adjective or modifier, runaway describes something that escapes control or proceeds unchecked, such as a runaway car, a runaway horse, or a runaway engine.

In transportation and machinery, a runaway object is one that continues moving or operating beyond the operator’s control, typically because of mechanical failure, human error, or procedural neglect. Examples include a runaway vehicle, train, or industrial equipment, and prevention relies on safety systems, automatic shutoffs, and maintenance protocols.

In economics and social discourse, runaway is used metaphorically to describe rapid, self-reinforcing growth or escalation, such as runaway inflation, runaway demand, or a runaway market. The term conveys a sense of momentum that resists immediate correction.

In culture, Runaway is also used as a title for various works, including the 1961 song Runaway by Del Shannon and the 2010 track Runaway by Kanye West. The term’s broad use reflects its core image of escape, loss of control, or irruption beyond expected boundaries.