jump-start

American  

[juhmp-stahrt] / ˈdʒʌmpˌstɑrt /

noun

1. Automotive. Also the starting of an internal-combustion engine that has a discharged or weak battery by means of booster cables.

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verb (used with object)

1. to give a jump-start to.

   to jump-start an engine.

2. to enliven or revive.

   to jump-start a sluggish economy.

jump-start British  

verb

1. to start the engine of (a car) by connecting it to another engine with jump leads or (of a car) to start in this way

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noun

1. the act of starting a car in this way

Etymology

Origin of jump-start

First recorded in 1975–80

Example Sentences

Other times, they can stir controversy and, on rare occasions, even jump-start careers.

From Slate • Apr. 3, 2026

Banks promised models a jump-start into the fashion industry.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 16, 2026

The 56-year-old nonprofit executive said he intends to rely on his personal wealth to jump-start his campaign.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 5, 2026

Now at 79 years old, his latest act is to jump-start his long-stalled hotel brand.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 27, 2026

All of those doctors and nurses were charging down the hall to try and jump-start a child’s heart.

From "Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie" by Jordan Sonnenblick