Definition of "initiative" []

• The power or ability to begin or to follow through energetically with a plan or task; enterprise and determination. (noun)
• A beginning or introductory step; an opening move: took the initiative in trying to solve the problem. (noun)
• The power or right to introduce a new legislative measure. (noun)
• The right and procedure by which citizens can propose a law by petition and ensure its submission to the electorate. (noun)
• Of or relating to initiation. (adjective)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "Could you just give us some more color on the label initiative?"
• "Chelsea had only managed six points from their previous six away games, a sequence that was threatening to hand the title initiative to Sir Alex Ferguson's team, but Drogba wrestled that back in impressive fashion."
• "Since the 1-1 draw seven weeks ago at Blackburn Rovers that seemed to hand the title initiative to Manchester United, Lampard has scored 11 goals in nine games, including a remarkable four in the 7-1 rout of Aston Villa."