tee-off Meaning

Definition:

Tee-off (verb) primarily refers to the act of striking the golf ball from a tee, which is a small device used to elevate the ball above the ground at the start of a hole in golf. More broadly, it can also mean the commencement of a game or event, particularly in a golf context.

Usage:

• In golf, the phrase “We will tee off at 10 AM” indicates the time when players intend to start their round of golf.
• It can be used metaphorically in discussions or writings to signify the beginning of an event or initiative, e.g., “The conference will tee off with a keynote speech.”

Etymology:

The term “tee” comes from the Scottish word “tee,” which refers to the little peg that elevates the golf ball, dating back to the 19th century. “Off” is a preposition that implies separation or a starting point. The combination of the two in “tee-off” thus relates to the action of beginning (or striking) the ball from the tee.

Pronunciation:

Phonetic transcription: /tiː ɔf/

• “tee” (like the letter “T”)
• “off” (similar to the word “off”)

Synonyms:

• Start
• Commence
• Launch (in a broader context)

Antonyms:

• Conclude
• End
• Finish

Example Sentences:

1. “After a brief introduction, the tournament will tee off with the first competitor.”
2. “They decided to tee-off their charity event with a golf tournament.”

In summary, “tee-off” is a golfing term that specifically denotes the action of beginning a round of golf by striking the ball from a tee, and it can metaphorically indicate the initiation of other events.

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