Start
/stɑːrt/
Definitions
3 meaningsTo begin doing something; to originate or initiate an action, process, or event.
/stɑːrt/
To begin or originate something.
The concert will start at 8 PM.
💡 Simply: It's like when you press the 'go' button! Imagine you're playing a game and you press 'start' to begin.
👶 For kids: To begin doing something, like when you start to play a game or start your day.
More Examples
I'm going to start a new exercise routine next week.
They decided to start a new business.
How It's Used
"Let's start the meeting."
"The company started a new project."
To move or jump suddenly as a result of surprise, fear, or alarm.
/stɑːrt/
To move or react suddenly.
He started when he heard the unexpected knock on the door.
💡 Simply: When you get spooked! Like when you jump at a loud clap of thunder.
👶 For kids: To jump a little because something scared or surprised you.
More Examples
The loud bang made her start in surprise.
She started at the sight of the snake.
How It's Used
"She started at the loud noise."
"The patient started when the doctor touched his arm."
The point or moment when something begins.
/stɑːrt/
The beginning of something.
The start of the new year is always a fresh beginning.
💡 Simply: The very first moment something happens. Like the beginning of a movie or a story.
👶 For kids: The beginning of something, like when you say 'ready, set, go!'
More Examples
She was late for the start of the meeting.
The starting gun signaled the start of the race.
How It's Used
"The start of the race was exciting."
"The start of the game was delayed."
Synonyms
Begin
Commence
Initiate
Launch
Originate
Jerk
Jump
Beginning
Commencement
Inception
Outset
Idioms & expressions
get a start
To gain an advantage or head start.
"They got a start on the project by working over the weekend."
to start with
Used to introduce the first thing or point.
"To start with, we need to review the budget."
a fresh start
A new beginning, often after a difficult period.
"After moving, they looked forward to a fresh start."
From Middle English starten, sterten, from Old English *stiertan, styrtan (“to move suddenly, spring, leap”), related to *stieran (“to steer, move”).
The word 'start' has been used since Old English to describe the beginning of something or a sudden movement.
Memory tip
Think of the 'start' button on a computer; it sets things in motion.