outset

noun

out·​set ˈau̇t-ˌset How to pronounce outset (audio)
Synonyms of outsetnext
: beginning, start

Synonyms of outset

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Examples of outset in a Sentence

There have been problems with the project from the outset. From its very outset, the company has produced the highest quality products. He made it clear at the outset that he is not going to quit his job. She set high goals for herself at the outset of her career.
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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Young, 80, has described the project as deeply personal from the outset. — Spin Staff, SPIN, 7 Aug. 2026 The company is designing the infrastructure around the computing load from the outset, rather than adding computing capacity to a conventional data center. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 6 Aug. 2026 On the reflecting pool, Pirro pursued the investigation despite what defense lawyers say was abundant evidence from the outset that the damage at the pool was the result of preexisting problems that had nothing to do with Hearn. — Josh Boak, Chicago Tribune, 5 Aug. 2026 The Tigers were favorites to win the American League Central at the outset of the season. — Hannah Keyser, CNN Money, 5 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for outset

Word History

First Known Use

1759, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of outset was in 1759

Rhymes for outset

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Browse Nearby Words

outsert
outset
outsetting
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Cite this Entry

“Outset.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/outset. Accessed 10 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on outset

Nglish: Translation of outset for Spanish Speakers

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