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

Last month, Raman tried without success to put a measure on the June 2 ballot that would have scaled back the types of properties covered by the tax, in hopes of jump-starting apartment construction.

From Los Angeles Times

The 56-year-old nonprofit executive plans to tap his personal wealth to jump-start his campaign.

From Los Angeles Times

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

From Los Angeles Times

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

From The Wall Street Journal

Rodríguez and her aides still control the nation’s security apparatus, which is vital to jump-starting the energy industry.

From The Wall Street Journal