Noun
1. an electric motor for starting an engine
2. a culture containing yeast or bacteria that is used to start the process of fermentation or souring in making butter or cheese or dough;
"to make sourdough you need a starter"3. a contestant who is in the game at the beginning
4. the official who signals the beginning of a race or competition
5. any new participant in some activity
6. food or drink to stimulate the appetite (usually served before a meal or as the first course)
7. a hand tool consisting of a rotating shaft with parallel handle