1. water from rain or melted snow that flows over the ground surface
Usage: environmental science; hydrology
2. additional elections held to determine a winner when no candidate receives a majority in the initial election
Usage: politics

Examples

• Heavy rainfall caused dangerous runoffs that flooded the streets.
• Agricultural runoffs can pollute nearby rivers and lakes.
• The city installed drainage systems to manage storm runoffs.
• Two candidates will compete in next week’s runoffs for mayor.
• The presidential runoffs will be held in December.
• Runoffs are necessary when no candidate wins over 50% of the vote.