1
general::
Phrase(s): lead off (with someone or something)
[for a person, process, or performance] to begin with someone or something. • The musical revue led off with a bassoon trio. • Sharon, the singer, will lead off tonight., Phrase(s): lead someone or something off
to guide someone or something away. • The guide led the hikers off on the adventure of their lives. • The dog owners led off their animals and they awaited the decision of the judges.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs
2
general::
Begin, start, go first. For example, We have a panel of three speakers, so will you lead off? [c. 1800]
American Heritage Idioms