beginner

noun

be·​gin·​ner bi-ˈgi-nər 

bē-

: one that begins something

especially : an inexperienced person

Synonyms

• abecedarian
• apprentice
• babe
• colt
• cub
• fledgling
• freshman
• greenhorn
• neophyte
• newbie
• newcomer
• novice
• novitiate
• punk
• recruit
• rook
• rookie
• tenderfoot
• tyro
• virgin

Examples of beginner in a Sentence

although our son is only a beginner at swimming, he is making excellent progress

Recent Examples on the Web

Soft bristles are small yet useful for budding teeth and beginner brushers. —Christin Perry, Parents, 6 June 2024

Sign the family up for surf lessons with Sister Jo’s Surf School (the waves are almost always ideal for beginners) and stroll the boardwalk through a marshy forest at the small but beautiful Indian Rocks Beach Nature Preserve. —Terry Ward, Travel + Leisure, 2 June 2024

What type of rod and reel do most beginner anglers use? —Max Inchausti, Field & Stream, 30 May 2024

Its friendly atmosphere is ideal for beginners who might feel nervous. —Playtogga, The Denver Post, 29 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing beginner

• beginner's luck

Kids Definition

beginner

noun

be·​gin·​ner bi-ˈgin-ər 

: a person who is beginning something or doing something for the first time : an inexperienced person