Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

run-out-of-steam

idiom
/rʌn ˈaʊt əv stiːm/
Definition
To lose energy, motivation, or momentum during an activity or process.
Examples
  • After working on the project for hours, I finally ran out of steam and needed a break.
  • The team’s performance was strong at first, but they seemed to run out of steam in the final quarter of the game.
Meaning
When someone or something runs out of steam, it means they have become exhausted or unable to continue with the same level of enthusiasm or effectiveness.
Synonyms
  • lose momentum
  • stall
  • weaken
  • flag
  • fade away