fledgling

noun

ˈflej-liŋ How to pronounce fledgling (audio)
Definition of fledglingnext
as in novice
a person who is just starting out in a field of activity at hockey he's still a fledgling and needs to work on his basic skating skills

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of fledgling With his fledgling career in limbo, van Dongen simply wanted answers. — Kansas City Star, 24 June 2026 Advertisement Meanwhile, fledgling companies in China benefit from substantial state support, which has significantly boosted the country’s global standing in innovation over the last decade. — Alois Zwinggi, Time, 24 June 2026 At a time when comics were at a creative and commercial low, the series brought in fans by the boatload and helped the fledgling direct market of independent comic book retail stores get to its feet. — Rob Salkowitz, Forbes.com, 23 June 2026 With Sonja Tyspin’s cinematography imbuing an innocent, sensual curiosity, Kiyoko sweetly conveys the awkward thrill of fledgling emotions. — Robert Abele, Los Angeles Times, 19 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for fledgling
Recent Examples of Synonyms for fledgling
  1. novice
  2. newcomer
  3. beginner
  4. apprentice
  5. freshman
  6. rookie
Noun
  • The same barbell that feels nearly impossible for a novice to pick up might be a cinch for an experienced lifter.
    — Jennifer Heimlich, Time, 6 July 2026
  • For novice growers, Barthel likes to emphasize that cannabis is hardy and fast-growing like a weed.
    — Martha Ross, Mercury News, 6 July 2026
Definition of novice
Noun
  • The neighborhood spot known for its signature Breakwater lattes has become a pop-culture destination, with many newcomers seeking to meet Tshnieder.
    — Melody Xu, Los Angeles Times, 9 July 2026
  • Programs supporting newcomer students, English language learners and those seeking financial aid for postsecondary education all got boosts in the state budget.
    — Charlie Borla, Oc Register, 9 July 2026
Definition of newcomer
Noun
  • This summer, attendance grew to more than 500, most of them beginners or amateur climbers.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 5 July 2026
  • The limited edition Estes Liberty Star rocket is the perfect model for the job, decked out with a blue and red styling and featuring beginner friendly assembly for an easy setup.
    — Tariq Malik, Space.com, 4 July 2026
Definition of beginner
Noun
  • Across all trades Pennsylvania infamously requires four journeymen per apprentice, as do Maryland and New Jersey.
    — Ryan Craig, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026
  • Guests will hear the shuffle of San Francisco outside the windows, phones ringing, and the lingering voices of apprentices or other clients.
    — Katherine McLaughlin, Architectural Digest, 26 June 2026
Definition of apprentice
Noun
  • Solak, a second baseman who was coached by Chiappetta on Naperville North’s freshman team, made his major league debut with the Texas Rangers in 2019 and has since played in 263 games for five teams.
    — Matt Le Cren, Chicago Tribune, 9 July 2026
  • The 19-year-old made 15 starts and played in all 18 games as a University of Pittsburgh freshman last fall.
    — Idaho Statesman, Idaho Statesman, 9 July 2026
Definition of freshman
Noun
  • The 24-year-old rookie is making the fourth start of his career.
    — Jeff Sanders, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 July 2026
  • Natera, a rookie left-hander, had five strikeouts in two perfect innings for his first career win.
    — Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 9 July 2026
Definition of rookie

Browse Nearby Words

fled
fledgling
fledglings
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Cite this Entry

“Fledgling.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fledgling. Accessed 11 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on fledgling

Nglish: Translation of fledgling for Spanish Speakers

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