rookie

noun

rook·​ie ˈru̇-kē How to pronounce rookie (audio)
Synonyms of rookienext
1
: recruit
also : novice
2
: a first-year participant in a major professional sport

Synonyms of rookie

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Examples of rookie in a Sentence

There are three rookies in the starting lineup. an experienced policeman whose partner is a rookie
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The rookie point guard overcame early shooting struggles to lead all scorers with 25 points. — Jason Anderson, Sacbee.com, 5 July 2026 Houston rookies Linda Ullmark and Kate Faase combined in the 89th minute to level the game at 1-1. — ABC News, 4 July 2026 The length and athleticism make Carr the type of rookie who could make an immediate impact on defense, Lakers summer league coach Ty Abbott said. — Los Angeles Times, 4 July 2026 What appeared to be a rough start to summer league for Miami Heat rookie guard Ryan Conwell quickly turned into an encouraging summer league debut for the Heat’s second-round draft pick. — Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 4 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for rookie

Word History

Etymology

perhaps alteration of recruit

First Known Use

1868, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of rookie was in 1868

Rhymes for rookie

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Browse Nearby Words

rookery
rookie
rookus
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Cite this Entry

“Rookie.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rookie. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

rookie

noun
rook·​ie ˈru̇k-ē How to pronounce rookie (audio)
: beginner, recruit
especially : a first-year player in a professional sport

More from Merriam-Webster on rookie

Nglish: Translation of rookie for Spanish Speakers

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