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

That changed Saturday, as rookie fourth-round tight end Matt Hibner caught five passes for 61 yards, including a 29-yard reception. — Jeff Zrebiec, New York Times, 16 Aug. 2026

Seventh-round rookie Jam Miller saw the bulk of the action, and had a nice 15-yard gain off an outside zone play, but created little that wasn’t there with the ball in his hands. — Andrew Callahan, Boston Herald, 15 Aug. 2026

However, this is becoming a theme for Ewers, who started the final three games last season as a rookie seventh-round draft pick but has been spotty in camp. — Chris Perkins, Sun Sentinel, 15 Aug. 2026

The former Tennessee Volunteer has played a substantial role in transforming the Falcons’ pass rush, leading the team with 10 1/2 sacks during his rookie season. — Maura Carey, Chicago Tribune, 15 Aug. 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