Merriam-Webster Logo
SINCE 1828
Menu
×

the go-ahead

noun

Definition of the go-ahead

: permission to do something
  • We've finally been given the go-ahead for the project.
  • The company received/got the go-ahead to manufacture the new drug.

Word by Word Definitions

go-ahead play

  1. : marked by energy and enterprise : progressive

  2. : indicating that one may proceed

  3. : being a score that gives a team the lead in a game

  1. : energy, spirit

  2. : one possessing go-ahead

  3. : a sign, signal, or authority to proceed : green light

See the full definition of go-ahead

Seen and Heard

What made you want to look up the go-ahead? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

show hide

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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

Words at Play

Ask the Editors

Word Games