outset

Plural: outsets

Noun

• The beginning or start of something.
• the time at which something is supposed to begin
• An onset; the beginning or initial stage of something.

Verb

• To cause (a design element) to extend around the outside of something else, the opposite of being inset.

Examples

• From the very OUTSET of the Scrabble game, it was clear she was playing a formidable opponent.
• He agreed and understood from the outset, so don't bother explaining again.

Synonyms

beginning, commencement, first, get-go, kickoff, offset, showtime, start, starting time

Antonyms

end, middle