give (one) a start

give (one) a start

1. To startle or frighten one. That loud noise sure gave us all a start. The sound of the door slamming gave me a start, but it was just my husband, home earlier than expected.
2. To assist one in jump-starting their car. The engine just would not turn over. Luckily, I saw my neighbor and asked if he could give me a start.
See also: give, start
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • give it to (one)
  • give it to someone
  • give (one) a pasting
  • give (one) running shoes
  • give (one) an earful
  • give someone an earful
  • give chase
  • give chase (to someone or something)
  • give birth
  • give birth to (someone or something)