Start
/stɑːrt/noun
To begin or set something in motion; also, to move suddenly with a jerk.
Did you know?The English word started life as a verb for a sudden leap or jerk, and its older Germanic relatives are tied to abrupt movement rather than calm beginnings.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Germanic
PGmc
*sturta-
“to jump, jerk, or start suddenly”
Old English
OE
styrtan
“to leap up, spring, or start suddenly”
Middle English
ME
starten
“to leap up, rush, or move suddenly”
15th Century
English
start
“to begin, set in motion, or move suddenly”
Modern English
English
start
“to begin or cause to begin; also, to react with a sudden jerk”