rookie

noun

rook·​ie ˈru̇-kē 

1

: recruit

also : novice

2

: a first-year participant in a major professional sport

Synonyms of rookie

• novice
• beginner
• freshman
• newcomer
• apprentice

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

Ruiz has stolen 77 bases in 96 attempts in the big leagues, but his inability to get on base consistently - combined with a 2024 wrist injury that sidelined him more than four months - have prevented him from establishing a big-league foothold since his rookie season. —Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 30 Dec. 2025

The Raiders would respond with a field goal on the ensuing drive, but Dart, the rookie who has shined despite the Giants’ results this season, wanted to get back into the end zone. —Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 29 Dec. 2025

Undrafted rookie Max Brosmer got his second career start in McCarthy's stead, completing 9 of 16 passes for 41 yards, no touchdowns and no interceptions. —Anthony Bettin, CBS News, 29 Dec. 2025

McCullar, a 6-foot-7, 210-pound San Antonio native who spent most of his 2024-25 rookie season rehabbing from knee surgery while on a two-way contract, scored 13 points with eight rebounds, two assists and two steals. —Gary Bedore, Kansas City Star, 29 Dec. 2025

Word History

Etymology

perhaps alteration of recruit

First Known Use

1868, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for rookie

• bookie
• cookie

Kids Definition

rookie

noun

rook·​ie ˈru̇k-ē 

: beginner, recruit

especially : a first-year player in a professional sport