opening
an open or empty space in or between things
How often you will meet it
Rank 1,137 of 71,295 words measured. It occurs 16,202 times across 155,370 chapters — 0.008% of every word in the library.
What it means
noun
- an open or empty space in or between things also: gap there was a small opening between the treesthe explosion made a gap in the wall
- a ceremony accompanying the start of some enterprise
- becoming open or being made open the opening of his arms was the sign I was waiting for
- the first performance (as of a theatrical production) also: opening night, curtain raising the opening received good critical reviews
- the act of opening something the ray of light revealed his cautious opening of the door
- opportunity especially for employment or promotion there is an opening in the sales department
opening in real books
Each sentence below was written by a published author and is taken from a different book in our library. Open one to read the passage it came from, with narration.
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So engrossed was he that he scarcely heard the Head Master's opening prayers.
The Hill: A Romance of Friendship · Horace Annesley Vachell · Chapter 1
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Then, opening the window, he examined carefully the courtyard of the adjoining house.
Other People's Money · Emile Gaboriau · Chapter 1
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The opening of the Canal will be the most splendid pageant of modern times.
Punchinello, Volume 1, No. 08, May 21, 1870 · Various · Chapter 1
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It has the virtue both of opening the gate and also of sending to sleep all the inhabitants.
The Yellow Fairy Book: The Grateful Beasts · World Traditions (Celtic, Norse, Asian & Persian) · Chapter 1
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And the star, opening, showed him a great world of light, where many more such angels waited to receive them.
Famous Stories Every Child Should Know · Hamilton Wright [Editor] Mabie · Chapter 1