The common term for a whistle used to signal the start of play in sports is the referee's whistle. This whistle is an essential tool in various sports, including soccer, basketball, and football, to officiate games and ensure that the rules are followed. The sound produced by the whistle alerts players, coaches, and spectators that the game is commencing or that a particular action has taken place. Referees and officials rely on the whistle for communication and control throughout the events.