beginner

noun

be·​gin·​ner bi-ˈgi-nər How to pronounce beginner (audio)
bē-
Synonyms of beginnernext
: one that begins something
especially : an inexperienced person

Synonyms of beginner

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Examples of beginner in a Sentence

although our son is only a beginner at swimming, he is making excellent progress
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.
The property is just a five-minute walk from the Côte des Basques beach (one of the best beginner-friendly surf beaches in the city), and close to the restaurants and bars of the Beaurivage neighborhood (known locally as ‘Bibi’). — Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 31 July 2026 Ryerson said the terrain itself can be as critical as instruction in helping beginners progress. — David Caraccio updated July 31, Sacbee.com, 31 July 2026 Certified personal trainer Katherine Roccasecca offers a flexible Couch to 5K walking plan on her website, and the C25K Couch to 5K Run Trainer app from Zen Labs Fitness advertises an eight-week program built for complete beginners. — Samantha Agate, Miami Herald, 31 July 2026 That said, Monarch’s extensive options can be overwhelming for beginner budgeters, and there is no free version available. — Faith Wakefield, USA Today, 30 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for beginner

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of beginner was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing beginner

Rhymes for beginner

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Browse Nearby Words

Begin
beginner
beginner's luck
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Cite this Entry

“Beginner.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/beginner. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

beginner

noun
be·​gin·​ner bi-ˈgin-ər How to pronounce beginner (audio)
: a person who is beginning something or doing something for the first time : an inexperienced person

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