beginner

noun

be·​gin·​ner bi-ˈgi-nər 

bē-

: one that begins something

especially : an inexperienced person

Synonyms of beginner

• novice
• newcomer
• rookie
• apprentice
• freshman

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

Pro tips The biggest mistake beginners make with pencil eyeliner is attempting to draw one flawless, uninterrupted stroke from the inner corner to the outer corner. — Marci Robin, Allure, 24 July 2026

The American Hiking Society’s hiking resources offer beginner guidance on conditioning and route selection. — Ashley Lynch, Miami Herald, 24 July 2026

For beginners, Fidelity's Roth IRA has no minimum deposit and offers retirement calculators, educational resources and the option to automate investing through Fidelity Go. — Andreina Rodriguez, CNBC, 23 July 2026

Morgan Cartier Weston of Cocoon Design Studio told Good Housekeeping that beginners should start small. — Ryan Brennan, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 23 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing beginner

• beginner's luck

Rhymes for beginner

• breadwinner
• dinner
• inner
• pinner
• sinner
• spinner
• thinner
• tinner
• winner

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