rookie

noun

rook·​ie ˈru̇-kē How to pronounce rookie (audio)
1
: recruit
also : novice
2
: a first-year participant in a major professional sport

Examples of rookie in a Sentence

There are three rookies in the starting lineup. an experienced policeman whose partner is a rookie
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
It should be noted that the Suns have two wildcards - Ryan Dunn and Oso Ighodaro - who were rookies last year. Morten Stig Jensen, Forbes.com, 29 July 2025 In came rookie Jose Iglesias, a slick-fielding shortstop with a .330/376/.409 slash line, while the ChiSox wound up with prospects and the BoSox landed former Cy Young winner Jake Peavy. Ryan Ford, Freep.com, 29 July 2025 Fourth-year Falcons backup running back Tyler Allgeier has four career runs of more than 30 yards, including three of more than 40 yards in his rookie season. Josh Kendall, New York Times, 28 July 2025 One of his favorite things to discuss is his rookie season. Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 28 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for rookie

Word History

Etymology

perhaps alteration of recruit

First Known Use

1868, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of rookie was in 1868

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Rookie.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rookie. Accessed 6 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

rookie

noun
rook·​ie ˈru̇k-ē How to pronounce rookie (audio)
: beginner, recruit
especially : a first-year player in a professional sport

More from Merriam-Webster on rookie

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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