Entry Word: beginning

Function: noun

Meaning: the point at which something begins <the actual beginning of the universe is still under debate, with some scientists believing in the big bang theory>

Synonyms alpha, birth, commencement, dawn, genesis, inception, incipiency, launch, morning, onset, outset, start, threshold

Related Words creation, inauguration, initiation, institution, origination; cradle, fountainhead, origin, root, source, spring, well, wellspring; dawning, opening; appearance, arrival, emergence; infancy

Near Antonyms cessation, closing, closure, completion, finale, finish, period, stop, termination, windup

Antonyms close, conclusion, end, ending