Definition
An electric or pneumatic device used to rotate an aircraft engine fast enough to initiate combustion and bring the engine up to a self-sustaining speed during the start sequence.
Plain English
The component that spins the engine over so it can fire up and run on its own.
Context Anchor
Seen in aircraft electrical systems, engine starting procedures, and maintenance troubleshooting for a no-start or slow-start condition.
Derivation
From the verb 'start,' meaning to set in motion. The name simply reflects its job: it gets the engine moving from a standstill until combustion takes over.
Why Pilots Care
A failed starter prevents engine start, grounding the aircraft and creating a safety and schedule issue.
Intuition Check
A starter is not just the person or action that begins something. In this context, it is the aircraft part that physically turns the engine so the start can happen.
Example Sentence 1
The pilot engaged the starter and the engine fired after two blades.
Example Sentence 2
During the annual inspection the mechanic tested the starter current draw to confirm it was still serviceable.