kickoff
1. [ noun ] (sport,american football) a kick from the center of the field to start a football game or to resume it after a score
Related terms: place_kick beginning football
2. [ noun ] the time at which something is supposed to begin
Synonyms: beginning start outset first showtime get-go offset starting_time commencement
Examples:

"they got an early start" "she knew from the get-go that he was the man for her"

Related terms: end middle point threshold birth incipiency terminus_a_quo begin begin originate inaugurate
3. [ noun ] a start given to contestants
Synonyms: start-off send-off
Examples:

"I was there with my parents at the kickoff"

Related terms: start inaugurate
Similar spelling:   kick_off
  kickapoo