tenderfoot

[ ten-der-foot ]

noun

, plural ten·der·foots, ten·der·feet [ten, -der-feet].

1. a raw, inexperienced person; novice.
2. a newcomer to the ranching and mining regions of the western U.S., unused to hardships.
3. one in the lowest rank of the Boy Scouts of America or Girl Scouts of America.

tenderfoot

/ ˈtɛndəˌfʊt /

noun

1. a newcomer, esp to the mines or ranches of the southwestern US
2. (formerly) a beginner in the Scouts or Guides

Word History and Origins

Origin of tenderfoot¹

An Americanism dating back to 1840–50; tender ¹ + foot

Example Sentences

She was 18, new to New York, a tenderfoot in an industry said to eat its young.

From New York Times

Aiden McCleskey, a tenderfoot Scout from Boy Scout Troop 61 in Northwest Washington, wanted to “gather resources” for Ukrainian civilians who get caught in the line of fire.

From Washington Times

“Black” Burton, a man evil-tempered and malicious, had been picking a quarrel with a tenderfoot at the bar, when Thornton stepped good-naturedly between.

From Literature

Once in the woods, teachers fell back, leaving tenderfeet to find their way together.

From New York Times

Now, less than 2 years later, Hudry has earned 31 badges, ascended through the levels of tenderfoot, second class, first class, star and life and achieved the organization’s highest rank - Eagle.

From Washington Times