kickoff

American  

[kik-awf, -of] / ˈkɪkˌɔf, -ˌɒf /

Or kick-off

noun

1. Football. a place kick or a drop kick from the 40-yard line of the team kicking at the beginning of the first and third periods or after the team kicking has scored a touchdown or field goal.

2. Soccer. a kick that puts a stationary ball into play from the center line of the field at the start of a quarter or after a goal has been scored.

3. the initial stage of something; start; beginning.

   the campaign kickoff.

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Etymology

Origin of kickoff

First recorded in 1855–60; noun use of verb phrase kick off

Example Sentences

USC is still working to identify its top kickoff and punt return options.

From Los Angeles Times

The date and kickoff time for the Rams’ season opener in Australia is set.

From Los Angeles Times

Still, his tone is upbeat: “The trial’s going really well. I would love to see the kickoff of Nebraska’s football season.”

From The Wall Street Journal

The NFL’s drastically altered kickoff format grew out of spring football.

From The Wall Street Journal

Umber said that both the symphony and youth orchestra will return in “Beethoven 9,” the kickoff to “Celebrating Gustavo at the Bowl.”

From Los Angeles Times