beginner

noun

be·​gin·​ner bi-ˈgi-nər 

bē-

: one that begins something

especially : an inexperienced person

Synonyms

• 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

Most people are still beginners after a year. —Cepee Tabibian, CNBC, 28 Sep. 2025

This is not an activity for beginners, the faint of heart, or the day-tripper, but kayaking or canoeing the Savonoski Loop is sure to be a memorable adventure. —Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 27 Sep. 2025

Our Top Picks From quick-dry formulas perfect for beginners to long-lasting bond-and-seal systems built for days of wear, these are the best eyelash glues worth adding to your makeup kit. —Jailynn Taylor, Allure, 25 Sep. 2025

But coloring your own hair can also be daunting, and the margin for error feels especially steep for beginners. —Maureen Choi, Glamour, 25 Sep. 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