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

New York-born Young, a rookie in the US side, birdied the first to get the earliest of red on the scoreboard.

From BBC

The Europe envelope was opened and English rookie David Gilford was the man to miss out as the US went on to win 14½ - 13½.

From BBC

While the Dodgers’ roster discussions remain fluid, Roberts sure made it sound on Friday night like embattled closer Tanner Scott and rookie phenom Roki Sasaki will be on the playoff roster.

From Los Angeles Times

He has not lost in either of his two singles matches so far, beating Rahm as an unheralded rookie in the 2021 win at Whistling Straits before earning a half against the Spaniard in Rome.

From BBC

Now, a rookie who has yet to throw an NFL pass is going to solve that riddle?

From Los Angeles Times

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.