Definition
An electric motor used to rotate a turbine engine's compressor section up to a speed at which fuel can be introduced and combustion sustained, after which the starter disengages and the engine accelerates to idle on its own power.
Plain English
A small electric motor that spins a turbine engine fast enough for it to light off and run on its own. Once the engine is going, the starter shuts off and drops out of the way.
Context Anchor
Seen in gas turbine engine start procedures, especially when checking battery power, external power, start limits, and engine start indications.
Why Pilots Care
Allows reliable engine start without external air or equipment, supporting operations at remote airports.
Analogy
It is like the starter motor in a car: it does not run the engine by itself, but it gets the engine moving so it can begin running on its own.
Intuition Check
Do not assume the electric starter creates engine power by itself. It only turns the engine during the start; fuel, ignition, and airflow are what allow the engine to keep running.
Example Sentence 1
After battery power was confirmed, the pilot engaged the electric starter and watched for the compressor to spool up before introducing fuel.
Example Sentence 2
After a failed start attempt, the pilot allowed the electric starter to cool before trying again.