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

The new kickoff format means they have to declare their intentions beforehand.

From The Wall Street Journal

When he shows up to USC, his college choice, the Trojans will have plenty of plans on how to use him, whether it’s receiver, wildcat quarterback, returning punts or kickoffs.

From Los Angeles Times

Defensive back: Jaden Walk-Green, Corona Centennial, 5-11, 180, Jr. — With 10 interceptions, including four returned for touchdowns while also kicking, punting and returning punts and kickoffs, he was the most versatile player in the Southland.

From Los Angeles Times

The market had been pretty humdrum for all of November, making the decline at the kickoff of December notable.

From Barron's

Putting aside any worries about where college sports are headed when one needs to explain anything about his biggest rival, the video had its intended effect, sparking cheers nearly a week before kickoff.

From Los Angeles Times