(~s)
1.
A ~ is a small quantity of food that is served as the first course of a meal. (mainly BRIT; in AM, use appetizer )
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2.
The ~ of a car is the device that starts the engine.
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3.
The ~s in a race are the people or animals who take part at the beginning even if they do not finish.
Of the 10 ~s, four were eliminated or retired.
N-COUNT: usu pl