newbie

American  

[noo-bee, nyoo‑] / ˈnu bi, ˈnyu‑ /

noun

Informal.

1. a person who is new to a field, activity, etc.; a novice or newcomer.

   January always brings newbies to our gym.

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newbie British  

/ ˈnjuːbɪ /

noun

1. slang a newcomer, esp in computing or on the internet

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Etymology

Origin of newbie

An Americanism first recorded in 1965–70; perhaps newb(orn) + -ie

Explanation

Newbie is a nickname for someone who is new to something. The new guy on a team or job is a newbie. Someone who just started using the internet is a newbie. Newbies are just starting out. This word — which has new right in it — is a slangy term for someone just starting an activity. A person on their first day at a job is a newbie. A first-time soccer player is a newbie. Freshmen are newbies. The opposite of a newbie is a veteran. Because newbies are inexperienced, they have a lot to learn. Newbies are also called rookies.

Example Sentences

Here’s the key: Newbie spies John and Jane arrive home after their first mission, and as they attempt to unwind, the weight of their new and dangerous life together sinks in.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 20, 2024

On Newbie Nights, teachers offer informal instruction and answer questions in a casual setting.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 17, 2023

A pharmaceutical firm has announced plans to shut its plant at Newbie near Annan in southern Scotland.

From BBC • Mar. 24, 2023

Newbie onboarding is why you’re on the show now, that’s me.

From The Verge • Dec. 7, 2021

“No, Greenie. I’m not really the newest Newbie anymore, right? The girl in the coma is. Call her Greenie—my name’s Thomas.”

From "The Maze Runner" by James Dashner

Related Words

• beginner
• novice
• rookie