false start

noun3

1. •
   The act of an athlete starting a race before being signaled to do so.
2. •
   The act of an offensive player moving across the line of scrimmage prior to the snap.
3. •
   An attempt at something that does not work, requiring one to start over.

   • After a "false start" that was too vigorous, overloading the motors, No. D171 made a very successful unassisted run from Tyne Dock to Consett. — 1962