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

For beginners, the goal is to get the minimum weekly requirements and increase from there. —Cory Martin, Verywell Health, 19 Feb. 2025

Six different yoga classes are offered, from hot and powerful to slow and mindful, for beginners or experienced. —Anne Gelhaus, The Mercury News, 18 Feb. 2025

Texas Hold’em Poker Lessons for Beginners Monday (weekly) from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. This beginner’s class is designed to teach the fundamentals of Texas Hold’em in a fun and engaging environment. —Kris Slugg, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 Feb. 2025

Both instructors recommend beginners learn yoga through a class setting, and cautioned against learning yoga through a video at home. —Pioneer Press, Twin Cities, 8 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing beginner

• beginner's luck

Rhymes for beginner

• breadwinner
• dinner
• inner
• pinner
• sinner
• spinner
• thinner
• tinner
• winner

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