GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English
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Found one definition
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Begin (), v. i. [imp. & p. p. Began (), Begun (); p. pr. & vb. n. Beginning ().] [AS. beginnan (akin to OS. biginnan, D. & G. beginnen, OHG. biginnan, Goth., du-ginnan, Sw. begynna, Dan. begynde); pref. be- + an assumed ginnan. √31. See Gin to begin.]
1. To have or commence an independent or first existence; to take rise; to commence.
[1913 Webster]
Vast chain of being! which from God began. Pope.
[1913 Webster]
2. To do the first act or the first part of an action; to enter upon or commence something new, as a new form or state of being, or course of action; to take the first step; to start. “Tears began to flow.” Dryden.
[1913 Webster]
When I begin, I will also make an end. 1 Sam. iii. 12.
[1913 Webster]