kick-start

Or kick·start

[kik-stahrt]

verb (used with object)

1. to start by means of a kick starter.

   to kick-start a motorcycle.

kick-start

/ ˈkɪkˌstɑːt /

verb

1. to start (a motorcycle engine) by means of a pedal that is kicked downwards

2. informal,  to make (something) active, functional, or productive again

noun

1. an action or event resulting in the reactivation of something

Other Word Forms

• kick-starter noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of kick-start¹

First recorded in 1910–15

Example Sentences

Things didn't work for him in the French capital, but a transfer to Frankfurt kick-started Ekitike's career.

From BBC

Fresh off the June release, Cocker also kick-started a tour with dates across the U.K. and Ireland.

From Los Angeles Times

We meet in Notting Hill's Music and Video Exchange – the shop that kick-started his record collection – and it's only when he starts rifling through the racks that the 50-year-old comes to life.

From BBC

Little moments like that, the Dodgers hope, will help kick-start their offense as they come up on the playoffs.

From Los Angeles Times

Your solo career was kick-started by stepping down as the lead singer of Sublime with Rome.

From Los Angeles Times