beginner

noun

be·​gin·​ner bi-ˈgi-nər 

bē-

: one that begins something

especially : an inexperienced person

Synonyms

• abecedarian
• apprentice
• babe
• colt
• cub
• fledgling
• freshman
• greenhorn
• neophyte
• newbie
• newcomer
• novice
• novitiate
• punk
• recruit
• rook
• rookie
• tenderfoot
• tyro
• virgin

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

Pad: Perfect for beginners and artists who enjoy painting plein air, pads of watercolor paper are a convenient, budget-friendly option. —Bestreviews, Mercury News, 16 June 2025

Texas Hold’em Poker Lessons for Beginners Monday (weekly) from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. This beginner’s class is designed to teach the fundamentals of Texas Hold’em in a fun and engaging environment. —Kris Slugg, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 June 2025

All skill levels can compete in the contest, which will feature a Beginner’s Luck division where competitors can perform beginner yo-yo tricks like the windup, dribble and forward pass to earn raffle tickets for prizes. —Kathryn Kovalenko, Twin Cities, 11 June 2025

Wilton also offers a variety of beginner to advanced courses, along with plenty of easy decorating hacks on their social media. —Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 June 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