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
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.
Doubs finished his rookie season with 42 receptions, which was fourth on the team. Rob Reischel, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025 Gilgeous-Alexander spent his rookie season with the Los Angeles Clippers and has been with the Thunder ever since. Chantz Martin, FOXNews.com, 1 July 2025 Drafted in 2023, Stroud had one of the best rookie seasons in NFL history. Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 30 June 2025 Kyle Hendricks gave up one run in five innings and rookie Christian Moore delivered the go-ahead single with two outs in the seventh. Los Angeles Times, 29 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for rookie

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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Rookie.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rookie. Accessed 8 Jul. 2025.

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
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