Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

running-dog

noun

/ˈrʌnɪŋ dɔɡ/

Definition

A person who acts as a servant to a foreign power or enemy, often betraying their own country.

Examples

He was labeled a running-dog for his blatant collaboration with the occupying forces.
The politician’s critics accused him of being a running-dog of foreign interests.

Meaning

The term ‘running-dog’ is typically used in a derogatory sense to describe someone who is perceived as weak or disloyal, typically advocating for an external influence or ideology.