beginner

noun

be·​gin·​ner bi-ˈgi-nər How to pronounce beginner (audio)
bē-
Synonyms of beginnernext
: one that begins something
especially : an inexperienced person

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
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For beginners weighing the two, that means a cheaper mat class may also be the harder workout, especially for anyone still building core strength. Hanna Wickes, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 26 June 2026 This fun, beginner-friendly class teaches the fundamentals of Texas Hold’em, giving you the confidence to join a friendly game. Kris Slugg, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 June 2026 Overall, the Windows experience is streamlined and beginner-friendly. Neil J. Rubenking, PC Magazine, 25 June 2026 Brazilian fandom is a funny thing, both in its complexity — Brazil, as one of its great cultural figures once said, is not for beginners — and in the ha-ha sense. Jack Lang, New York Times, 25 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for beginner

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of beginner was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Beginner.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/beginner. Accessed 2 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

beginner

noun
be·​gin·​ner bi-ˈgin-ər How to pronounce beginner (audio)
: a person who is beginning something or doing something for the first time : an inexperienced person

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