opener

noun

open·​er
ˈōp-nər,
ˈō-pə- How to pronounce opener (audio)
: one that opens
a bottle opener
: such as
a
openers plural : cards of sufficient value for a player to open the betting in a poker game
b
: the first item, contest, or event of a series
Phrases
for openers
: to begin with

Examples of opener in a Sentence

The album's opener is a slow love song.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
The Lee’s Summit West athletes were also on the Chiefs field for the home opener and brought out a Super Bowl flag during the opening ceremony. Janice Phelan, Kansas City Star, 12 Mar. 2025 The Midshipmen blew out the Eagles 81-58 at home in their conference opener before once again upsetting American on the road, 68-60 in the rematch on February 26. Faisal Kutty, Newsweek, 12 Mar. 2025 Lucas Giolito has been lined up to pitch Boston’s fifth game of the season, the series opener against the Baltimore Orioles on March 31. Mac Cerullo, Boston Herald, 11 Mar. 2025 Clark and the Indiana Fever will host the Chicago Sky — including Angel Reese — for their season opener on May 17 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. Natasha Dye, People.com, 11 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for opener

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of opener was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Opener.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/opener. Accessed 17 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

opener

noun
open·​er ˈōp-(ə-)nər How to pronounce opener (audio)
: something used for opening
a bottle opener
a conversation opener

More from Merriam-Webster on opener

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!