jump-start
verb
jump-started; jump-starting; jump-starts
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
Examples of jump-start in a Sentence
an intentionally provocative comment that was supposed to jump-start the discussion
Recent Examples on the Web
Knee surgery jump-started her path to better health After an operation in 2021, Winfrey found a new approach to fitness.
—
Avalon Hester, PEOPLE, 31 Dec. 2025
But just when Canada most urgently needs to jump-start the country’s economic growth, the country’s courts are inventing new obstacles to development.
—David Frum, The Atlantic, 27 Dec. 2025
Lindsey would throw two more touchdown passes in the Rugters win, but his 78-yard bomb to Jalen Smith — the U’s longest pass play of the season — jump-started the U’s comeback from a 14-0 hole.
—Andy Greder, Twin Cities, 24 Dec. 2025
Here, the sage type contributes an herby flavor that adds depth to the recipe, while the hot kind gives it just enough of a spicy kick to jump-start your day.
—Libby Monteith Minor, Southern Living, 23 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for jump-start
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Avalon Hester, PEOPLE, 31 Dec. 2025
But just when Canada most urgently needs to jump-start the country’s economic growth, the country’s courts are inventing new obstacles to development.
—David Frum, The Atlantic, 27 Dec. 2025
Lindsey would throw two more touchdown passes in the Rugters win, but his 78-yard bomb to Jalen Smith — the U’s longest pass play of the season — jump-started the U’s comeback from a 14-0 hole.
—Andy Greder, Twin Cities, 24 Dec. 2025
Here, the sage type contributes an herby flavor that adds depth to the recipe, while the hot kind gives it just enough of a spicy kick to jump-start your day.
—Libby Monteith Minor, Southern Living, 23 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for jump-start
Cite this Entry
“Jump-start.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/jump-start. Accessed 4 Jan. 2026.
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