jump-start

[ juhmp-stahrt ]

noun

1. Also Automotive. the starting of an internal-combustion engine that has a discharged or weak battery by means of booster cables.

verb (used with object)

1. to give a jump-start to:

   to jump-start an engine.

2. to enliven or revive:

   to jump-start a sluggish economy.

jump-start

verb

1. to start the engine of (a car) by connecting it to another engine with jump leads or (of a car) to start in this way

noun

1. the act of starting a car in this way

Word History and Origins

Origin of jump-start¹

First recorded in 1975–80

Example Sentences

Metro’s planners are also suggesting that the board provide an additional $10 million to jump-start some Olympic efforts.

From Los Angeles Times

Right tackle Joe Alt was a full participant in practice Thursday for the first time since he injured his knee against the Steelers, potentially giving Herbert much-needed protection to jump-start the offense.

From Los Angeles Times

Soto said this approach is necessary because, while a small number of spring-run salmon may make it far upstream, there wouldn’t be enough to jump-start the population.

From Los Angeles Times

I was just recently doing something where I was rewatching some of the show’s iconic moments, actually, and when I saw the scene where we jump-start the van, it actually gave me goosebumps.

From Los Angeles Times

On the opposite side, Michigan is sure to try to jump-start Donovan Edwards, the Wolverines’ elusive star running back who has started slowly this season.

From Los Angeles Times