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

Malcolm Roach was flagged for landing with his weight on Lawrence and rookie Jahdae Barron was whistled for a debatable pass interference in the end zone. —CBS News, 22 Dec. 2025

After weeks of dating rumors between the New York Giants rookie quarterback, 22, and the influencer, also 22, the pair seemingly confirmed their romance over the weekend with a sly move on Instagram. —Luke Chinman, PEOPLE, 22 Dec. 2025

Wingard, explaining the franchise’s turnaround to a Jaguars radio broadcaster, lauded the teachings of Liam Coen, the team’s rookie head coach. —Tom Krasovic, San Diego Union-Tribune, 22 Dec. 2025

Joseph didn’t mess with that much against Jacksonville, the Chargers are improved on the ground with rookie Omarion Hampton back and the playoff field should be full of teams that can do both. —Parker Gabriel, Denver Post, 22 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