jump-started; jump-starting; jump-starts

transitive verb

1
: to start (an engine or vehicle) by temporary connection to an external power source (such as another vehicle's battery)
2
a
: to start or restart (something) rapidly or forcefully
advertising can jump-start a political campaign
b
: to impart fresh or renewed energy to (something) : energize
a plan to jump-start the stagnant economy
jump start noun

Examples of jump-start in a Sentence

an intentionally provocative comment that was supposed to jump-start the discussion
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.
The fellowships have been around since 1974 and have helped jump-start the careers of many of today's industry leaders. Arizona Republic, The Arizona Republic, 11 Dec. 2024 Since jump-starting the Eras Tour in March 2023, Taylor Swift has given $197 million in bonuses to her performers and crew members, Rolling Stone has confirmed. Kalia Richardson, Rolling Stone, 9 Dec. 2024 This future has been a dream since even before the famous DARPA Grand Challenge that jump-started the race for autonomous vehicles in 2004. Peter Ludwig, Forbes, 4 Dec. 2024 The Glendale Glitters kick-off event on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 29-30, also will have local vendors selling their wares, perfect to jump-start your holiday shopping, carolers performing classic holiday songs and an appearance by Santa Claus. Meredith G. White, The Arizona Republic, 29 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for jump-start 

Word History

First Known Use

1973, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of jump-start was in 1973

Dictionary Entries Near jump-start

Cite this Entry

“Jump-start.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/jump-start. Accessed 24 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on jump-start

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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