Start

Definition

Start refers to the act of beginning something or causing something to begin. It can also mean a sudden movement, often from surprise or shock.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /stɑrt/
• Respelling: START

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /stɑːt/
• Respelling: STAHT

Etymology

The word "start" originates from Old English "styrtan," meaning "to leap up or jump up." It is related to Middle Low German "sterten" and Old Norse "sterta," both carrying the sense of sudden movement or beginning.

Derivatives

• Starter (noun)
• Restart (verb, noun)
• Starting (adjective, noun)
• Startup (noun)
• Outstart (noun)

Synonyms

• Begin
• Commence
• Initiate

Antonyms

• End
• Stop
• Finish

Usage

The term "start" is widely used to describe the initiation of an action or event. For example, "She decided to start a new hobby," or "The race will start at 10 a.m." It is also used metaphorically, such as "It’s never too late to start over."

Related Terms

• Initiation: The act of beginning something.
• Onset: The initial stage of an event or process.
• Origin: The point at which something begins.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The act of beginning or initiating something: Refers to the moment when something begins.
  • Example: "The start of the project was delayed."
• A sudden movement or reaction: Indicates a quick or abrupt motion caused by surprise or emotion.
  • Example: "He woke with a start after hearing the loud noise."
• The initial part of something: Refers to the beginning section or phase of an event or object.
  • Example: "The book's start was intriguing."

Verb

• To begin or cause to begin: Refers to initiating an activity or process.
  • Example: "They decided to start a business together."
• To move suddenly or sharply: Indicates a quick or abrupt reaction to a stimulus.
  • Example: "She started when the door slammed unexpectedly."