Definition of the word run across

The phrase "run across" originates from the Middle English period, specifically from the late 1400s. In its earliest form, it was written as "runne across." This idiomatic expression developed from the literal meaning of "to run across" something or someone, which literally refers to encountering someone or something by accident while moving quickly, such as running. The words "run" and "across" were combined because they represented complementary aspects of the chance encounter. "Run" implies speed and motion, which suggests that the meeting was unexpected and sudden, while "across" hints at spatial orientation, implying that the unexpected meeting happened while moving through a certain space. Over time, the idiomatic meaning of "run across" has changed from an emphasis on literal motion to a figurative sense of unplanned or unexpected discovery. Today, we use it to describe any random or unexpected encounter or discovery of a person, place, or thing, without necessarily implying any literal movement on our part. In conclusion, the origin of the phrase "run across" can be traced back to the Middle English period, where it referred to a literal meeting that occurred by accident during fast movements. As it evolved over time, the idiom's meaning shifted from a focus on motion to a broader definition that includes chance discoveries and encounters.