novice

American  

[nov-is] / ˈnɒv ɪs /

noun

1. a person who is new to the circumstances, work, etc., in which they are placed; beginner; tyro.

   The new senator was a novice in politics.

   Synonyms:

   newcomer, neophyte, greenhorn, beginner

2. a person who has been received into a religious order or congregation for a period of probation before taking vows.

   Synonyms:

   neophyte

3. a person newly become a church member.

4. a recent convert to Christianity.

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novice British  

/ ˈnɒvɪs /

noun

1. 1. a person who is new to or inexperienced in a certain task, situation, etc; beginner; tyro

   2. ( as modifier )

      novice driver

2. a probationer in a religious order

3. a sportsman, esp an oarsman, who has not won a recognized prize, performed to an established level, etc

4. a racehorse, esp a steeplechaser or hurdler, that has not won a specified number of races

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Other Word Forms

• novicehood noun
• novicelike adjective

Etymology

Origin of novice

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English novyce, from Middle French novice, from Medieval Latin novītius “convent novice,” variant of Latin novīcius “newly come into a particular status,” derivative of novus new. See -itious

Example Sentences

Comparative novices could soon be running the place.

From BBC

I am not an investing novice; I have managed my own portfolio for decades with good success.

From MarketWatch

Although they begin as novice agents, both gamely step up and build an unlikely friendship in the process.

From Los Angeles Times

Baldy attracts both experienced hikers and novices to its picturesque alpine trails.

From Los Angeles Times

The company runs the Cambridge Rowing Experience, which takes novice rowers on to the River Cam for a taste of the sport.

From BBC

Related Words

• beginner
• learner
• neophyte
• newcomer
• pupil
• trainee