give the word

English

Etymology

From the concept of using a certain word used as a signal to others that they are allowed to commence on some event. While the term originally meant that a pre-decided word was to be used, the term has since evolved to mean giving allowance for an event to commence in general, not necessarily by a specific word.

Pronunciation

• Audio (US):

  (file)

Verb

give the word (third-person singular simple present gives the word, present participle giving the word, simple past gave the word, past participle given the word)

1. To communicate or signal to another that an action or event is allowed to commence or should be commenced, usually but not necessarily by linguistic communication.

   We can't start the project until the boss has given us the word.

   • 1988, R.E.M. (lyrics and music), “Turn You Inside-Out”, in Green:

     Given the choice / Given the heart / Given the truth / Given the word / Given the cheers / Given the tears / Given the choice

Related terms

• given the choice
• give the go-ahead
• give the thumbs-up