Kickoff Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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kickoff

[ˈkɪkɔːf ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

event start

A kickoff refers to the beginning of an event, especially in the context of sports or meetings. In American football, it specifically denotes the action of starting the game or restarting play after a score. This term emphasizes the initiation of activities or processes.

Synonyms

beginning, launch, start.

Examples of usage

The kickoff for the game is scheduled for 3 PM.
We had a successful kickoff meeting to outline the project goals.
The team's victory was celebrated right from the kickoff.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

initiate action

To kickoff means to initiate or start an event, project, or activity. It is often used in business contexts to describe the launch of new initiatives or in sports when referring to starting the game.

Synonyms

initiate, launch, start.

Examples of usage

Let's kickoff the project with a brainstorming session.
The ceremony will kickoff with a keynote speech.
They plan to kickoff the new advertising campaign next month.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'kickoff'

The term 'kickoff' originates from the American football terminology, where it describes the act of kicking the ball to start the game or to resume play after a touchdown or field goal. The word is a compound of 'kick,' which has roots in Old English 'cyccan,' meaning to strike with the foot, and 'off,' indicating a direction away from a starting point. The usage of 'kickoff' expanded beyond sports in the late 20th century to denote the start of various events, especially in business and project management contexts. Its adoption in corporate language reflects the growing influence of sports metaphors in everyday communication.