Start

noun

1. The beginning of an activity.

   "The movie was entertaining from start to finish."

2. A sudden involuntary movement.

   "He woke with a start."

3. The beginning point of a race, a board game, etc.

   "Captured pieces are returned to the start of the board."

4. An appearance in a sports game, horserace, etc., from the beginning of the event.

   "Jones has been a substitute before, but made his first start for the team last Sunday."

5. A young plant germinated in a pot to be transplanted later.