noun
- the beginning or start of something, especially something unpleasant
- a sudden attack or assault
Usage: military; formal
Examples
- The onset of winter brought heavy snowfall to the region.
- She felt dizzy at the onset of her illness.
- The onset of the economic crisis caught many businesses unprepared.
- Doctors can now detect the onset of Alzheimer’s disease earlier.
- The enemy’s sudden onset overwhelmed the defenders.
- At the onset of the meeting, the chairman outlined the agenda.
- The onset of puberty varies from child to child.