beginner

noun

be·​gin·​ner bi-ˈgi-nər How to pronounce beginner (audio)
bē-
: one that begins something
especially : an inexperienced person

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
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.
That said, this is still a beginner-friendly yet tasty pie to add to your Thanksgiving spread. Heather Riske, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Nov. 2025 Pothos Pothos is easy to care for, adaptable in bright or low light environments and a great plant for beginners and houseplant connoisseurs alike. Chris McKeown, Cincinnati Enquirer, 14 Nov. 2025 Outdoor Research’s Carbide Collection is a super-versatile, relatively affordable line of ski and ride outerwear designed for beginners to experts who ski in-bounds or in the backcountry. Nathan Allen, Travel + Leisure, 14 Nov. 2025 There are nearly two dozen cave tours to choose from, ranging from beginner to expert, along with hiking, camping, a lodge, and more. Tarah Chieffi, USA Today, 11 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for beginner

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of beginner was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Beginner.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/beginner. Accessed 20 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

beginner

noun
be·​gin·​ner bi-ˈgin-ər How to pronounce beginner (audio)
: a person who is beginning something or doing something for the first time : an inexperienced person

More from Merriam-Webster on beginner

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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