jump-start

verb

ˈjəmp-ˈstärt How to pronounce jump-start (audio)
jump-started; jump-starting; jump-starts
Synonyms of jump-startnext

transitive verb

1
: to start (an engine or vehicle) by temporary connection to an external power source (such as another vehicle's battery)
2
a
: to start or restart (something) rapidly or forcefully
advertising can jump-start a political campaign
b
: to impart fresh or renewed energy to (something) : energize
a plan to jump-start the stagnant economy
jump start noun

Synonyms of jump-start

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Examples of jump-start in a Sentence

an intentionally provocative comment that was supposed to jump-start the discussion
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Xavier Pratt scored the touchdown that finally jump-started Homewood-Flossmoor’s offense after a slow start. — Steve Millar, Chicago Tribune, 29 Aug. 2026 In 1980, before even finishing his dissertation, he was invited to teach in the Native-studies department at the University of Lethbridge in southern Alberta, jump-starting a long career in academia. — Tommy Orange, Vulture, 26 Aug. 2026 But as is common in sports, especially during rebuilds, the assets with high return values — the kind of talent that can jump-start improvement — are difficult to part with. — Daniel Sperry, Kansas City Star, 26 Aug. 2026 Speaking of which, Amazon is getting a jump-start on its long weekend deals, with steep markdowns on travel-ready clothing that transitions seamlessly from summer to fall. — Melony Forcier, Travel + Leisure, 26 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for jump-start

Word History

First Known Use

1973, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of jump-start was in 1973

Rhymes for jump-start

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Browse Nearby Words

jump spark
jump-start
jumpsuit
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Cite this Entry

“Jump-start.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/jump-start. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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