Starter

/ˈstɑːrtər/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A person or thing that starts something.
The coach called a time-out to replace the starter with a more experienced player.
A dish served at the beginning of a meal.
For our first course, we ordered a vegetable starter.
A device used to initiate the operation of a machine or engine.
He had to replace the faulty starter in his car to get it running again.
An introductory course or practice.
The university offers a starter program for students new to online learning.
An ingredient used to initiate fermentation in food or drink, such as sourdough bread.
She kept her sourdough starter alive for years by regularly feeding it.

Etymology

From the verb 'start' + the suffix '-er', indicating a person or thing that performs an action.

Common Phrases and Expressions

starter pack:
A set of items or tools that are ideal for beginners in a certain activity.
starter home:
A modestly priced home suitable for a first-time buyer.
starter pistol:
A blank-firing gun used to signal the start of a race.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

A newbie or beginner in a particular activity or area.
He's just a starter; give him some time to learn.
A casual term for someone who initiates conversation or activities.
She’s the starter of our group chats, always bringing up new topics.