novice

[ nov-is ]

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: neophyte, greenhorn, beginner, newcomer

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.

novice

/ 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

Other Words From

• nov·ice·hood noun
• nov·ice·like adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of novice¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of novice¹

C14: via Old French from Latin novīcius, from novus new

Example Sentences

He is no higher than fourth-choice keeper at Surrey, though not a complete novice.

From BBC

This squad, led by an impressive captain in Dewi Lake, is full of young men proud to play for their country - but they are currently lightweight and novices on the international stage.

From BBC

It explains why Logan Paul, a boxing novice, was able to enter the ring with a boxer in the conversation as one of the greatest boxers ever.

From Salon

"It was a decent sparring session between a tough, young novice and a very old but once great man, Mike Tyson," Bunce said.

From BBC

Paul, 27, is a boxing novice but was too young and too athletic.

From BBC

Related Words

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