kickoff
UK: ˈkɪkɒf | US: ˈkɪkɔːf
n. the start or resumption of a football game, signaled by a player kicking the ball
n. the beginning of an event or activity
vt. to start or initiate something (less common)
The word "kickoff" originated in the mid-19th century from sports terminology, particularly football (soccer). It combines "kick," derived from Old English ciccan (to strike with the foot), and "off," from Old English of (away, beginning). The term originally described the literal act of kicking the ball to start a match, later extending metaphorically to any initiation of an event or activity.
The kickoff for the championship game is at 3 PM.
The conference kickoff included a keynote speech by the CEO.
They decided to kickoff the project with a team meeting.
The kickoff was delayed due to heavy rain.
Her presentation served as the kickoff for the new marketing campaign.