Opening
'oʊpnɪŋ
Definitions
3 meaningsThe point at which something begins or is made available.
'oʊpnɪŋ
The act of making something accessible or starting something.
The film had a dramatic opening.
💡 Simply: Imagine a brand new store, and the *opening* is when they unlock the doors and let everyone in for the first time. It's like the beginning!
👶 For kids: When something *opens* or starts, like when you open a present or when school *opens* in the morning.
More Examples
The opening of the new museum was a huge success.
The concert's opening act was fantastic.
How It's Used
"The grand opening of the new store attracted a large crowd."
"The opening of the game was slow-paced."
A space or gap that permits access or passage.
'oʊpnɪŋ
A space, gap, or aperture.
The cave's opening was hidden by vines.
💡 Simply: Like a doorway or a window! It’s any space where you can see or go through, such as the *opening* in a wall or the hole in your socks.
👶 For kids: A hole or space that lets you see through or go inside.
More Examples
There was a small opening in the fence.
The opening of the envelope revealed the letter.
How It's Used
"The window opening provided a view of the garden."
"The wound had a small opening."
Happening at or near the beginning.
'oʊpnɪŋ
Relating to the beginning of something.
The opening scenes of the film were very dramatic.
💡 Simply: The first part or beginning. The *opening* credits of a movie, the *opening* line of a book.
👶 For kids: The first part of something, like the beginning of a story.
More Examples
The opening argument presented a clear case.
The opening remarks were well received.
How It's Used
"The opening chapter of the book was captivating."
"The opening bars of the song were instantly recognizable."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
opening gambit
An action or statement made to gain an advantage in a situation, especially at the beginning.
"His opening gambit was to offer a low price."
open up
To begin to talk more freely about your thoughts and feelings.
"She started to open up to her therapist."
open to
ready or willing to consider something new or different; receptive to.
"He is always open to new ideas."
From Old English *openung*, the action of opening. Related to the verb "open" and the adjective "open."
The word "opening" has been used in English since the early 16th century, and has evolved to encompass a wide range of meanings, from physical spaces to the start of events.
Memory tip
Think of the door *opening* to a new experience.
Word Origin
"to make available, uncover, or begin"