kickoff

American  

[kik-awf, -of] / ˈkɪkˌɔf, -ˌɒf /

Or kick-off

noun

1. Football. a place kick or a drop kick from the 40-yard line of the team kicking at the beginning of the first and third periods or after the team kicking has scored a touchdown or field goal.

2. Soccer. a kick that puts a stationary ball into play from the center line of the field at the start of a quarter or after a goal has been scored.

3. the initial stage of something; start; beginning.

   the campaign kickoff.

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Etymology

Origin of kickoff

First recorded in 1855–60; noun use of verb phrase kick off

Example Sentences

Starting four hours before kickoff of every match at MetLife, service to New Jersey from New York Penn Station will be partially restricted.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 21, 2026

Business owner Sarah Wells, who is part of the We Pay the Tariffs group, echoed Anthony’s view that Monday’s kickoff was a mixed bag.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 20, 2026

USC is still working to identify its top kickoff and punt return options.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 25, 2026

Still, his tone is upbeat: “The trial’s going really well. I would love to see the kickoff of Nebraska’s football season.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 13, 2026

Marshall fumbles the kickoff and Permian recovers deep inside Maverick territory at the 37.

From "Friday Night Lights: A Town, A Team, And A Dream" by H.G. Bissinger