onset /ˈɒnˌsɛt/noun 6verb 2forms 2 noun6 •The initial phase of a disease or condition, in which symptoms first become apparent.After four days, the man claimed to be hearing hushed, unintelligible voices in his head. Assuming it was an onset of psychosis, the scientists paid little attention to the man’s concerns. — 2009 •The beginning of a musical note or other sound, in which the amplitude rises from zero to an initial peak. •A setting about; a beginning.There is surely no greater wisdom than well to time the beginnings and onsets of things. — 1625 •The initial portion of a syllable, preceding the syllable nucleus. •(no longer used) An attack; an assault especially of an army.Heralds, from off our towers, we might behold From first to last, the onset and retire Of both your armies — 1596 •(no longer used) Anything added, such as an ornament or as a useful appendage.And will with deeds requite thy gentleness: And, for an onset, Titus, to advance Thy name and honourable family, Lavinia will I make my empress. — 1588 verb2 •(no longer used) To assault; to set upon. •(no longer used) To set about; to begin. formsonsetting · onsets
