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.
Undrafted rookie forward Ezra Ausar was also unavailable for the Heat after just signing his Exibit 10 deal with Miami on Thursday night. — Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 17 Oct. 2026 Since getting traded as a rookie and returning when the transaction was rescinded, the 17th overall pick in the 2024 draft has never carved out a steady role with the Lakers. — Los Angeles Times, 17 Oct. 2026 This news conceivably means Moton will assume starting duties just as rookie offensive tackle Monroe Freeling recovers from a knee injury. — Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 17 Oct. 2026 While McKee will be QB1 this weekend, the Eagles appear to be turning to a division rival to bolster their quarterback room and potentially push rookie Cole Payton out of the backup role in Week 6. — Chantz Martin Outkick, FOXNews.com, 17 Oct. 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 20 Oct. 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
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