kick-start

American  

[kik-stahrt] / ˈkɪkˌstɑrt /

Or kickstart

verb (used with object)

1. to start by means of a kick starter.

   to kick-start a motorcycle.

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kick-start British  

/ 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

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noun

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

Other Word Forms

• kick-starter
  noun

Etymology

Origin of kick-start

First recorded in 1910–15

Example Sentences

Some political and industry observers said that both the federal and Alberta governments might be required to step up with additional funding to kick-start construction.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 15, 2026

U.S. officials said he would seek to reduce tensions and kick-start a more productive dialogue on Iran.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 5, 2026

I gave him $5,000 a few years ago to help kick-start him.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 30, 2026

Kartal's run to the fourth round at Indian Wells last year, her debut at a WTA 1,000 tournament, helped kick-start a breakthrough season for the 24-year-old, who reached a career-high ranking of 44 in 2025.

From BBC • Mar. 10, 2026

I’m hoping they’ll help us kick-start our own Seniors for Seniors adoption program.

From "Shine!" by J.J. and Chris Grabenstein