opener

noun

open·​er
ˈōp-nər,
ˈō-pə- How to pronounce opener (audio)
: one that opens
a bottle opener
: such as
a
openers plural : cards of sufficient value for a player to open the betting in a poker game
b
: the first item, contest, or event of a series
Phrases
for openers
: to begin with

Examples of opener in a Sentence

The album's opener is a slow love song.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Edison aimed to build off its solid nonleague season by playing spoiler in the league opener. Dan Albano, Oc Register, 17 Oct. 2025 In their two games at Enterprise Center, including a 5-0 loss to the Minnesota Wild in the season-opener, they’ve been outscored 13-3. Jeremy Rutherford, New York Times, 16 Oct. 2025 Coach Steve Kerr said that Butler is highly doubtful for the game against the Clippers at Chase Center on Friday, but should be available next week in Los Angeles for the season opener against the Lakers. Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 16 Oct. 2025 On the sports front, the Cincinnati Cyclones make a thrilling return to the ice for their season opener. Caroline Ritzie, Cincinnati Enquirer, 15 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for opener

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of opener was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Opener.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/opener. Accessed 18 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

opener

noun
open·​er ˈōp-(ə-)nər How to pronounce opener (audio)
: something used for opening
a bottle opener
a conversation opener

More from Merriam-Webster on opener

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!