beginner

[ bih-gin-er ]

noun

1. a person or thing that begins.
2. a person who has begun begun a course of instruction or is learning the fundamentals:

   swimming for beginners.

3. a person who is inexperienced; novice.

beginner

/ bɪˈɡɪnə /

noun

1. a person who has just started to do or learn something; novice

Word History and Origins

Origin of beginner¹

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400; begin, -er ¹

Example Sentences

"The key things that you'd need to enjoy are moving around a lot and looking a bit funny," Sam advises aspiring beginners.

From BBC

Skill level: Geared toward beginner and intermediate walkers, although some walks can be more challenging if the group is willing, Murillo said.

From Los Angeles Times

For Tom Anderson, founder of Tom Anderson Guitarworks, who’s been a mentor and “second father” to Blackwell for 22 years, watching him go from a beginner to a skillful craftsman isn’t a surprise.

From Los Angeles Times

According to the North Shore Ohana School of Surfing, waves can reach 2 to 4 feet high in beginner spots during the summer and up to 8 feet in the winter.

From Los Angeles Times

In The New Yorker, Helen Rosner said that Blanca "is not for beginners," referencing the "flavors that are strong, unexpected and occasionally disorienting."

From Salon

Related Words

• learner
• neophyte
• newcomer
• novice