freshman
word
Definition
A freshman is a student in the first year of high school, college, or university, especially in the US. It can also more generally mean someone who is new to a group or activity.
Usage & Nuances
Most common in American English. In college contexts, 'freshman' contrasts with 'sophomore', 'junior', and 'senior'. Some schools prefer gender-neutral alternatives like 'first-year student'. It can also appear before another noun, as in 'freshman class' or 'freshman year'.
Example Sentences
My sister is a freshman at State University.
basic
The freshman class starts next week.
basic
He feels nervous because he is a freshman.
basic
As a freshman, I got lost on campus at least twice a day.
natural
The older students love giving freshmen advice, whether they ask for it or not.
natural
She still remembers how excited she was during freshman year.
natural