Dictionary

opening

noun open·ing \ˈōp-niŋ, ˈō-pə-\

: a hole or empty space that you can go through

: the first part of something

: the first time that something happens

Full Definition of OPENING

1
a :  an act or instance of making or becoming open
b :  an act or instance of beginning :  commencement; especially :  a formal and usually public event by which something new is put officially into operation
2
:  something that is open: as
a (1) :  breach, aperture
(2) :  an open width :  span
b :  an area without trees or with scattered usually mature trees that occurs as a break in a forest
c :  two pages that face one another in a book
3
:  something that constitutes a beginning: as
a :  a usually planned series of moves made at the beginning of a game of chess or checkers — compare endgame, middle game
b :  a first performance
4
a :  occasion, chance
b :  an opportunity for employment
ADVERTISEMENT

First Known Use of OPENING

13th century
OPENING Defined for Kids

opening

noun open·ing \ˈō-pə-niŋ, ˈōp-niŋ\

Definition of OPENING for Kids

1
:  a place that is not enclosed or covered :  clearing
2
:  an act of making or becoming ready for use <Neighbors are anxious for the opening of a new store.>
3
:  beginning <People who came late missed the opening of the speech.>
4
:  1occasion 3 <He was waiting for an opening to tell the joke.>
5
:  a job opportunity <There is an opening in the legal department.>
Medical Dictionary

opening

noun open·ing \ˈōp-(ə-)niŋ\

Medical Definition of OPENING

1
:  an act or instance of making or becoming open
2
:  something (as an anatomical aperture) that is open or opens
ADVERTISEMENT
How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.
Test your vocab with our fun, fast game
Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears