Be*gin" (?), 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. &root;31. See Gin to begin.]
1.
To have or commence an independent or first existence; to take rise; to commence.
Vast chain of being! which from God began.
Pope.
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.
When I begin, I will also make an end.
1 Sam. iii. 12.
© Webster 1913.
Be*gin", v. t.
1.
To enter on; to commence.
Ye nymphs of Solyma ! begin the song.
Pope.
2.
To trace or lay the foundation of; to make or place a beginning of.
The apostle begins our knowledge in the creatures, which leads us to the knowledge of God.
Locke.
Syn. -- To commence; originate; set about; start.
© Webster 1913.
Be*gin", n.
Beginning.
[Poetic & Obs.]
Spenser.
© Webster 1913.