Neophyte
[NEE-ə-fahyt]
Part of speech: noun
Origin: Greek, 14th century
1.
A person who is new to a subject, skill, or belief.
2.
A new convert to a religion.
Examples of Neophyte in a sentence
"This week I'm training a neophyte to take over when I retire."
"The ceremony introduced the neophyte to our congregation."
About Neophyte
Originally a Greek word ("neophutos") meaning "newly planted," this term was used to describe a newly ordained priest. The modern usage relates to anyone who is new to a belief or a skill.
Did you Know?
The origins of "neophyte" are biblical. St. Paul used it in 1 Timothy 3:6 to describe a new convert. In the King James version of the Bible, "neophyte" has been translated into "novice." "Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil."
