apprentice

¹ap·pren·tice

noun, often attributive \ə-ˈpren-təs\

Definition of APPRENTICE

1

a : one bound by indenture to serve another for a prescribed period with a view to learning an art or trade b : one who is learning by practical experience under skilled workers a trade, art, or calling

2

: an inexperienced person : novice <an apprentice in cooking>

— ap·pren·tice·ship \-tə(sh)-ˌship, -təs-ˌship\ noun

Examples of APPRENTICE

1. <decided to be an apprentice to an electrician after he graduated>
2. <aware that she's only an apprentice in the medical field, she readily defers to her more experienced colleagues>

Origin of APPRENTICE

Middle English aprentis, from Anglo-French apprentiz, from aprendre to learn, from Latin apprendere, apprehendere

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to APPRENTICE

Synonyms: adjunct, adjutant, aid, aide, helper, assistant, coadjutor, deputy, helpmate, helpmeet, lieutenant, mate, sidekick

Antonyms: old hand, old-timer, vet, veteran

Related Words: attendant, handmaiden (also handmaid), maid, maidservant, scullion, servant; auxiliary, legman, subordinate, underling; employee (also employe), hand, help, hireling, laborer, swamper, worker; gal Friday, girl Friday; man Friday, right hand; aide-de-camp

Near Antonyms: expert, master, pro, professional

see all synonyms and antonyms

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Other Job Terms

factotum, milliner, ostler, scrivener, tinker, webster, wordsmith

Rhymes with APPRENTICE

momentous, portentous