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

In addition, a third group of beginners underwent short-term training in StarCraft II, a strategy video game, so researchers could see how learning a new creative skill affects the brain over just a few weeks. —Deirdre Bardolf, FOXNews.com, 6 Dec. 2025

Bestsellers include Pierre the Penguin and Fred the Dinosaur, which are also considered beginner crochet kits. —Alec Johnson, jsonline.com, 5 Dec. 2025

People were obsessed with it — total beginners and semi-pros playing side by side, all having fun. —Ryan MacAsero, Mercury News, 5 Dec. 2025

Even when children ride beginner tracks with other kids on small bikes, the speed and awkward landings can make crashes deadly. —Nick Penzenstadler, USA Today, 4 Dec. 2025

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