Newbie

Pronunciation

• IPA: /ˈnjuːbi/, /ˈnuːbi/
• Rhymes: -uːbi

Origin

Origin uncertain: perhaps an alteration of newie with intrusive b (compare freebie), perhaps a shortening of new boy or new beginner. Very likely originated in Newfoundland, where the term 'new boy' is quite common, and sounds like 'newbie' when spoken.

Full definition of newbie

Noun

1. (slang) A newcomer, someone new to something. from 20th c.
2. (Internet) A new user or participant; someone who is extremely new and inexperienced (to a game or activity). A beginner.

Usage notes

The term "newbie" was greatly popularized with the advent of the Internet, but was in use before then.

Synonyms

• noob, n00b
• novice
• newcomer
• newling
• rookie

Antonyms

• knowbie