kick in

The phrase 'kick in' has versatile meanings ranging from starting something to contributing to a cause, and even delivering a blow.

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Definition

B2General

(common)To start or take effect, often suddenly.

Example

The painkillers will kick in after about 20 minutes.
The new regulations will kick in next year.

B2Financial

(informal)To contribute money or resources.

Example

Everyone in the office kicked in a few dollars for the gift.
The community kicked in to help rebuild the school.

B2Physical

(slang)To strike with the foot forcefully.

Example

He threatened to kick in the door if they didn't open it.
The attacker kicked in the window to get inside.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "kick in":

kick over kick it kick off knock in kick start go in jump in come in kick up get in pitch in break in kick back go in on chip in take effect kick into touch punch in push in roll in butt in put the boot in step in start into cut in start in on kick around cash in blow in come into check in throw in rush in do in pull in put in chuck in kick someone's ass kick out chime in creep in bring in