noun
Other Word Forms
Noun Inflected Forms
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.
See Examples For:
Now that you are familiar with beginner balance exercises, try these powerful — and impactful — plyometric exercises for improving balance.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 18, 2026
Here are beginner, intermediate and advanced versions of the season’s most popular shapes.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 18, 2026
"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
“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
It’s a beginner piece that I could play in my sleep, but it’s also a calming melody that always puts my mind at ease.
From "Split the Sky" by Marie Arnold
Instead, he said, beginners may be better off opening a card with transferable points.
From MarketWatch ● Sep. 29, 2026
Like many beginners, I had no idea about the reality of fencing: the rigorousness, the gear, the clientele.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 24, 2026
For beginners, the NHS Couch to 5K programme offers a free nine-week plan designed to gradually build fitness and help people run five kilometres without stopping.
From BBC ● Aug. 21, 2026
One guide suggests beginners start with polylactic acid filament, a generally nontoxic material made primarily of cornstarch or sugar cane.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 15, 2026
To help alleviate the costs for beginners or for kids whose parents weren’t willing or able to purchase fencing equipment, our high school had equipment for rent, like jackets, knickers, and lames.
From "Proud" by Ibtihaj Muhammad
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