(~s)
Frequency: The word is one of the 3000 most common words in English.
1.
The ~ event, item, day, or week in a series is the first one.
They returned to take part in the season’s ~ game.
...the ~ day of the fifth General Synod.
ADJ: ADJ n
2.
The ~ of something such as a book, play, or concert is the first part of it.
The ~ of the scene depicts Akhnaten and his family in a moment of intimacy.
= beginning
N-COUNT: usu N of n
3.
An ~ is a hole or empty space through which things or people can pass.
He squeezed through a narrow ~ in the fence.
N-COUNT
4.
An ~ in a forest is a small area where there are no trees or bushes. (mainly AM; in BRIT, usually use clearing )
I glanced down at the beach as we passed an ~ in the trees.
N-COUNT
5.
An ~ is a good opportunity to do something, for example to show people how good you are.
Her capabilities were always there; all she needed was an ~ to show them.
N-COUNT
6.
An ~ is a job that is available.
We don’t have any ~s now, but we’ll call you if something comes up.
N-COUNT
7.
see also open