beginner

noun

be·​gin·​ner bi-ˈgi-nər 

bē-

: one that begins something

especially : an inexperienced person

Synonyms

• abecedarian
• apprentice
• babe
• colt
• cub
• fledgling
• freshman
• greenhorn
• neophyte
• newbie
• newcomer
• novice
• novitiate
• punk
• recruit
• rook
• rookie
• tenderfoot
• tyro
• virgin

Examples of beginner in a Sentence

although our son is only a beginner at swimming, he is making excellent progress

Recent Examples on the Web

This AeroPilates reformer is excellent for beginners and saves space. —Nora Colomer, Fox News, 28 Dec. 2024

All of these are well-suited for beginners interested in learning astrophotography. —John Natale, Hartford Courant, 26 Dec. 2024

Budget-friendly infrared devices are a good way for a beginner to enter the world of astronomy. —Matt Morris, Space.com, 26 Dec. 2024

The fluffy brush blush allows for a soft, diffused application of powder blushes, while the three eye brushes combine together for a no-think, beginner smokey eye—just blend! —Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 13 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing beginner

• beginner's luck

Kids Definition

beginner

noun

be·​gin·​ner bi-ˈgin-ər 

: a person who is beginning something or doing something for the first time : an inexperienced person