rook·ie \ˈru̇kē, -ki\noun (-s) Usage:often attributive Etymology: alteration (influenced by rook) (I) of recruit 1.: a raw recruit : novice, beginner < a rookie in the army > < a rookie on the police force > 2.: a new member of or candidate for an athletic team; especially: a baseball player in his first season with a major league team < was chosen rookie of the year >