opener

One that opens, especially a device used to cut open cans or pry up bottle caps.

The player who starts the betting in cards.

Cards of sufficient value to enable the holder to open the betting.

A remark that initiates a conversation.

The first act in a theatrical variety show.

The first game in a series.

(for openers) To begin with.

plural In poker, the necessary qualification for opening a jack-pot, namely, jacks or better.

One who opens: as, a pew-opener.