start 1 of 4

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as in to jump
to move suddenly and sharply (as in surprise) I started from my chair when I heard the sudden scream

Synonyms & Similar Words

6

start

2 of 4

noun (1)

starts

3 of 4

verb (2)

present tense third-person singular of start
1
as in jumps
to move suddenly and sharply (as in surprise) I started from my chair when I heard the sudden scream

Synonyms & Similar Words

2
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starts

4 of 4

noun (2)

plural of start

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of start
Verb
As the region’s megadrought continues, roaming mammals, like black bears and mountain lions, may start to occupy larger ranges, widening their territory in the search for water and other resources. John Leos, AZCentral.com, 3 Sep. 2025 That’s where partnerships stop being a points treadmill and start feeling like service design. Jeff Fromm, Forbes.com, 3 Sep. 2025
Noun
After a shaky start last year, Young excelled down the stretch after his month-long benching. Mike Kaye updated August 26, Charlotte Observer, 26 Aug. 2025 The Giants’ first round pick made his first start as an NFL quarterback in the team’s preseason finale against the New England Patriots at MetLife Stadium. Pat Leonard, New York Daily News, 22 Aug. 2025
Verb
That is, until Batista’s cell starts ringing. Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 5 Sep. 2025 The change the world needs now starts from within us. Jessica Dulong, CNN Money, 5 Sep. 2025
Noun
Lugo has struggled in recent starts. Jaylon Thompson, Kansas City Star, 4 Sep. 2025 Only three carer wins in twenty-three lifetime starts but this son of English Channel is battle tested as his last sixteen starts have been in Stakes company. Danny Brewer, Forbes.com, 4 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for start

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Cite this Entry

“Start.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/start. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

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