rookie

noun

rook·​ie ˈru̇-kē 

1

: recruit

also : novice

2

: a first-year participant in a major professional sport

Synonyms of rookie

• novice
• beginner
• freshman
• newcomer
• apprentice

Examples of rookie in a Sentence

There are three rookies in the starting lineup.

an experienced policeman whose partner is a rookie

Recent Examples on the Web

Alvarado used assists from defenders Manu Duah and rookie Kieran Sargeant to scores the winner in the 50th minute. — ABC News, 26 July 2026

The Dolphins’ failures to defend the run come in large part due to the then-trio of rookie defensive tackles – Kenneth Grant, Jordan Phillips and Zeek Biggers – that the team relied upon heavily. — Miami Herald, 25 July 2026

The rookie sensation and former college star fired a bogey-free 10-under 61, using a blistering back-nine 28 to seize a three-shot lead heading into Sunday's final round. — Jeff Goudy, Forbes.com, 25 July 2026

Fast-forward to Saturday, when Delane made his training camp debut with fellow rookies and quarterbacks — with a caveat. — Kansas City Star, 25 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

perhaps alteration of recruit

First Known Use

1868, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for rookie

• bookie
• cookie

Kids Definition

rookie

noun

rook·​ie ˈru̇k-ē 

: beginner, recruit

especially : a first-year player in a professional sport