kick starter
Noun: A kick starter is a mechanical device, typically found on motorcycles or some other small engines, that is used to start the engine. It is activated by using one's foot and body weight to push down on a lever, which turns the engine over to initiate combustion.
The term "kick starter" specifically refers to the physical component on a vehicle. It is used when describing the method of starting an engine or when referring to the part itself. * The vintage motorcycle requires using the kick starter to get it running. * He broke the kick starter lever when he kicked it too hard.
- "to kick-start" (verb): While "kick starter" is a noun, the related verb phrase "to kick-start" is commonly used metaphorically to mean to give something a beginning or a boost of energy.
- The new funding will kick-start the research project.
- She drank a coffee to kick-start her day.
- Kick-start (verb): To start a motorcycle engine with a kick starter, or metaphorically, to start or revitalize something.
- Electric starter: A modern alternative to a kick starter, which uses an electric motor to start the engine, usually activated by a button.
- Starter lever
- Kick-start lever
The term "kick starter" is a compound noun. Its primary and most literal meaning is the mechanical device. The metaphorical use is almost exclusively associated with the verb form "to kick-start."
- a starter (as on a motorcycle) that is activated with the foot and the weight of the body