jump-start

verb

ˈjəmp-ˈstärt 

jump-started; jump-starting; jump-starts

transitive verb

1

: to start (an engine or vehicle) by temporary connection to an external power source (such as another vehicle's battery)

2

a

: to start or restart (something) rapidly or forcefully

advertising can jump-start a political campaign

b

: to impart fresh or renewed energy to (something) : energize

a plan to jump-start the stagnant economy

jump start noun

Synonyms of jump-start

• stimulate

Examples of jump-start in a Sentence

an intentionally provocative comment that was supposed to jump-start the discussion

Recent Examples on the Web

The Duffers have always worn their influences with pride, and the specters of Steven Spielberg and Stephen King helped jump-start the series into a phenomenon. —Alison Herman, Variety, 27 Nov. 2025

Her energy in transition jump-started the offense after the early lull. —Jalon Dixon, MSNBC Newsweek, 27 Nov. 2025

The very system that made this resurgence possible is now stalling — and must be jump-started to deliver on the promise of a strong, steady industry symbolized by Salles’ Oscar win. —Caio Delcolli, IndieWire, 26 Nov. 2025

Maybe this will jump-start someone else’s journey. —Victoria Uwumarogie, Essence, 25 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1973, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for jump-start

• apart
• depart
• flowchart
• forepart
• impart
• pushcart
• rampart
• redstart
• restart
• subpart
• sweetheart
• upstart