rookie

noun

rook·​ie ˈru̇-kē How to pronounce rookie (audio)
1
: recruit
also : novice
2
: a first-year participant in a major professional sport

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 Many of these soon-to- be retirees are banking on rookie advisors succeeding them. April Rudin, Forbes, 3 Sep. 2024 Making such a strong playoff push late in Caitlin Clark's rookie season also bodes well for the future of the franchise. Justin L. MacK, Axios, 3 Sep. 2024 Burrell began working with her stylist during her rookie season in 2022. Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 3 Sep. 2024 Since a 5-1 start to Kmet’s rookie season, the Bears are 7-17 in games decided by seven points or fewer. Dan Wiederer, Chicago Tribune, 3 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for rookie 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'rookie.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

perhaps alteration of recruit

First Known Use

1868, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of rookie was in 1868

Dictionary Entries Near rookie

Cite this Entry

“Rookie.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rookie. Accessed 7 Sep. 2024.

Kids Definition

rookie

noun
rook·​ie ˈru̇k-ē How to pronounce rookie (audio)
: beginner, recruit
especially : a first-year player in a professional sport

More from Merriam-Webster on rookie

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!