ROOKIE Synonyms: 38 Similar and Opposite Words

rookie

noun

ˈru̇-kē

Definition of rookie

as in novice

a person who is just starting out in a field of activity although a star in his old sport of basketball, he was still just a rookie as far as baseball was concerned

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of rookie The performance was the peak of Hadjar’s strong rookie season, which prompted Red Bull to promote him to its senior squad for 2026 alongside Verstappen in place of the struggling Tsunoda. — Luke Smith, New York Times, 19 Aug. 2026 While Whisenhunt had another clunker, fellow rookies Bryce Eldridge and Trent Harris had impressive nights. — Justice Delos Santos, Mercury News, 19 Aug. 2026 The latest season of The Challenge features six rookie contestants and several vets, split into three teams competing to take home $500,000. — Brenton Blanchet, PEOPLE, 19 Aug. 2026 Biadasz was replaced by rookie offensive lineman Jake Slaughter, who is among the candidates to play left guard. — Assistant Sports Editor, Los Angeles Times, 19 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for rookie

Recent Examples of Synonyms for rookie

Noun

The novice senator is beginning her sixth week on the job, having been appointed to fill her late brother Lindsey Graham's seat two days after his sudden death on July 11.

— Sophia Vlahakis, CBS News, 19 Aug. 2026
An aurora photographer who spoke to National Geographic offered tips for novices trying to take photos of the phenomenon, including would-be photographers who only have access to a smartphone camera.

— Zachary Folk, Forbes.com, 17 Aug. 2026

Definition of novice

Noun

That level of integration not only simplifies the workflow for beginners but also creates a more efficient and consistent experience for professionals who regularly produce parts.

— Michael Lydick, PC Magazine, 21 Aug. 2026
Our group is so welcoming, and there are always more seasoned players willing to teach and play with beginners, like me.

— Amy Drew Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 20 Aug. 2026

Definition of beginner

Noun

Two other newcomers, Jovaughn Gwyn and Ethan Pocic, remain in the mix for the starting spot.

— CBS News, CBS News, 21 Aug. 2026
The Dynamo completed a season sweep after beating the Whitecaps 1-0 at home in May on a goal by newcomer Guilherme Santos six minutes into second-half stoppage time.

— ABC News, ABC News, 20 Aug. 2026

Definition of newcomer

Noun

The construction of the statue, completed in 1852, involved an enslaved apprentice.

— Kelsey Ables, The Atlantic, 20 Aug. 2026
During his first two years as a starter, Santori was the apprentice who carefully studied the game and developed organically under the influence of his older peers.

— Patrick Z. McGavin, Chicago Tribune, 15 Aug. 2026

Definition of apprentice

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rooked

rookie

rookies

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“Rookie.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rookie. Accessed 25 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of rookie

noun

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