newbie

noun

new·​bie ˈnü-bē 

ˈnyü-

informal

: a person who has recently started a particular activity : beginner, novice, newcomer

It's true that some users–particularly newbies—fall into the Web like Alice down the rabbit hole.

—Scott Kirsner

What will happen when all those newbie politicians sit down in the swivel chair for the first time?

—Geoff Clark

Synonyms

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

Examples of newbie in a Sentence

He is a newbie to local politics.

a newbie to woodworking, he was still trying to learn all the terms and techniques of the craft

Recent Examples on the Web

But when the experienced Wayne (voiced by David Foley) is stuck with newbie Lanny (Derek Richardson), their first mission goes off the rails and risks a merry Christmas for everyone. —Sydni Ellis, People.com, 15 Dec. 2024

According to 5280 Magazine, newbies should focus on finding proper-fitting skates to ensure balance and control. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 12 Dec. 2024

But there are also a hefty number of newbies joining these ranks, as the 2025 program is composed of 36 of 87 (41 percent) feature film directors who are first-time feature filmmakers. —Kate Erbland, IndieWire, 11 Dec. 2024

Janet is the newbie with an analytical mind and a passion to prove herself in law enforcement. —Mary Ann Grossmann, Twin Cities, 24 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

irregular from new

First Known Use

1970, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

newbie

noun

new·​bie ˈn(y)ü-bē 

informal

: a newcomer especially to cyberspace