n. 1. The act or an instance of becoming open or being made to open: the opening of the tomb. 2. a. A gap, breach, or aperture: slipped through an opening in the hedge. b. A clearing in the woods. 3. a. The first part or stage, as of a book. b. The first performance: the opening of a play. c. A formal commencement of operation: attended the opening of the new museum. d. A specific pattern or series of beginning moves in certain games, especially chess. 4. a. An opportunity affording a chance of success. See Synonyms at opportunity. b. An unfilled job or position; a vacancy. |
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