Apprentice

/əˈprɛntɪs/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A person who is learning a trade from a skilled employer, having agreed to work for a fixed period at low wages.
The young apprentice worked diligently under the guidance of the master carpenter.
A beginner or novice in any field.
As an apprentice in the world of digital marketing, she absorbed every lesson with enthusiasm.
verb
To employ as an apprentice.
The company decided to apprentice several new recruits to enhance their skills.

Etymology

Middle English: from Old French 'aprentiz', derived from 'apprendre' meaning 'to learn'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

apprentice electrician
A person learning the electrical trade under the guidance of a licensed electrician.
master-apprentice relationship
A mentorship dynamic where a master teaches an apprentice the skills of the trade.

Related Words

mentor
An experienced and trusted adviser who guides a less experienced person.
intern
A student or recent graduate undergoing practical training.
journeyman
A worker or craftsman who has completed an apprenticeship but is not yet a master.

Slang Meanings

greenhorn
He's still a greenhorn in this field, just an apprentice learning the ropes.
noob
I felt like such a noob during my first week as an apprentice.