freshman
UK: ˈfreʃmən | US: ˈfreʃmən
n. a first-year student at a university, college, or high school
n. a newcomer or beginner in a specific field or activity
The word "freshman" combines "fresh" (from Old English fresc, meaning "new" or "recent") and "man" (from Old English mann, meaning "person"). It originally referred to a novice or newcomer, particularly in academic contexts. The term emerged in the 16th century to describe first-year university students, emphasizing their inexperience compared to upperclassmen. Over time, it expanded to include high school students and beginners in other fields. The logic is straightforward: a "fresh" person entering a new environment.
As a freshman, she was nervous about starting college.
The freshman class organized a welcome party for new students.
He felt like a freshman again when he switched careers.
The professor gave special guidance to the freshmen during orientation.
Freshmen often struggle with time management in their first semester.