noun
Etymology
Origin of beginner
Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400; see origin at begin, -er 1
Explanation
A beginner is someone who's brand new at something. In swimming lessons, a beginner practices putting her face in the water and blowing bubbles. If you're a beginner, you're a novice or an amateur — in other words, you're still learning. When you're learning to drive, you're a beginner and probably need the help of an instructor while you drive carefully around your neighborhood. A beginner at speaking French might be able to say a few phrases and know some basic vocabulary words. The earliest meaning of beginner, from the 14th century, was "founder," or "person who establishes an institution."
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
"Trump is no longer a beginner at this point, much less Lula. Since these are experienced diplomats, experienced heads of state, they try to steer away from obstacles that are insurmountable."
From BBC • May 7, 2026
“It took patience and perseverance being a beginner again.”
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 2026
“For younger or beginner investors, having parental visibility or approval can be helpful in guiding decision making and reinforcing good habits,” Tobin said.
From MarketWatch • Mar. 26, 2026
By management’s estimate, June Mountain’s 41 named trails are 15% beginner level and 40% intermediate.
From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 29, 2026
I recognize it as one of the beginner worlds in Warcross: Paintbrush Level.
From "Warcross" by Marie Lu
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
