beginner
UK[bɪˈɡɪnə]US[bɪˈɡɪnər]
n
a person who is starting to learn or do something for the first time; a novice.
n
a person or thing that begins something.
Morpheme Breakdown
begin
er
begin
to begin, attempt, undertake
er
Etymology
the word 'beginner' is a transparent english formation from the verb 'begin' and the agent suffix '-er'. the verb 'begin' itself has germanic origins, from old english beginnan, which likely combined the prefix be- (to make, about) with a base related to starting. the suffix '-er' is one of the most productive in english for forming agent nouns, directly from old english -ere, which has cognates across germanic languages. thus, a 'beginner' literally means "one who begins," a logical and enduring description for someone starting a new activity or learning process. its meaning has remained stable and concrete from its old english roots to modern usage.
Analysis
Structure: begin + er
begin (from old english beginnan, meaning "to begin, attempt, undertake") + er (from old english -ere, an agent noun suffix indicating "one who does or is associated with").
Examples
the course is designed for complete beginners.
as a beginner in chess, she was just learning the basic moves.
he won the award for best beginner in the photography competition.