rookie

[rook-ee]

noun

1. an athlete playing their first season as a member of a professional sports team.

   The rookie replaced the injured regular at first base.

2. a raw recruit, as in the army or on a police force.

3. a novice; tyro.

rookie

/ ˈrʊkɪ /

noun

1. informal,  an inexperienced person or newcomer, esp a raw recruit in the army

Word History and Origins

Origin of rookie¹

1890–95; alteration of recruit; -y ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of rookie¹

C20: changed from _recruit

Example Sentences

A big challenge will be moving forward with the running game now that rookie Omarion Hampton has joined Najee Harris on injured reserve.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

He ought to get himself in championship coaching shape so he doesn’t make the same rookie mistakes he made against the Timberwolves in last season’s playoffs.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

In a cruel twist, the Ravens are horrible on defense, typically Baltimore’s strong suit, and not just because they had to replace five injured defensive starters with rookies last week.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Shortly before his rookie NBA season, he met Kobe at a Nike camp, who offered a warning.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

But even as a rookie, Johnston became a target of derision for their fans.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• colt 
• newcomer 

When To Use

What does Rookie of the Year mean?

Rookie of the Year is an award given to an athlete judged most accomplished in the first season of their sport.