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Synonyms

tyro

American  
[tahy-roh] / ˈtaɪ roʊ /
Or tiro

noun

tyros plural
  1. a beginner in learning anything; novice.

    Synonyms:
    learner, neophyte

tyro British  
/ taɪˈrɒnɪk, ˈtaɪrəʊ /

noun

  1. a novice or beginner

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of tyro

First recorded in 1605–15, tyro is from the Latin word tīrō “recruit”

Explanation

A tyro is a beginner, a new recruit, or someone who is just learning something. If you are the new guy at the job and you're wearing a big badge that says "Trainee" on it, you are a tyro. Tyro isn't used much these days but it's similar to newbie, novice, or recruit. We have all been tyros at some point. Tyro can also be used as an adjective to describe someone new to a particular scene — such as "the tyro congressman" or "the tyro quarterback."

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Vocabulary lists containing tyro

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.

Nuguse's pet tortoise Tyro has only been out of hibernation for a few days when we speak, but the laid-back athlete is grateful to have his companion back.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2025

Both Westpac and Tyro did not immediately respond to Reuters requests for comment.

From Reuters • Oct. 17, 2022

In Australia, it has backed Tyro Payments, a company that provides banking solutions for small businesses.

From New York Times • Apr. 6, 2016

Many people who have these questions can find out more about the agricultural process through a series of informational programs at SandyCreek Farm in Tyro.

From Washington Times • Jun. 7, 2014

Pelias’ half-brother, the son of Tyro and Cretheus, was the father of Jason, whom Pelias tried to kill by sending him after the Golden Fleece.

From "Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes" by Edith Hamilton

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