The term "runaway" refers to something or someone that has escaped from a controlled, expected, or normal state. It can be used in various contexts such as describing an object or person that is escaping or fleeing from confinement, restraint, or supervision; or it could refer to a situation where something unstoppable or out of control is happening. In the case of technology, "runaway" may describe software or hardware that has malfunctioned and is no longer under human control. The term can also be used figuratively to describe a person who is escaping from their problems or responsibilities by leaving a difficult situation without resolving it.