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starting gate

noun

Definition of starting gate

1 :a mechanically operated barrier used as a starting device for a race
2 :a barrier that when knocked aside by a competitor (such as a skier) starts an electronic timing device

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First Known Use of starting gate

1893

STARTING GATE Defined for English Language Learners

starting gate

noun

Definition of starting gate for English Language Learners

  • : a gate or set of gates that opens at the start of a horse or dog race to let the animals begin racing

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  1. See words that rhyme with starting gate

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