neophyte Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a plant that is found in an area where it had not been recorded previously
  2. noun any new participant in some activity
    newbie; fledgeling; newcomer; entrant; freshman; fledgling; starter.
  3. noun a new convert being taught the principles of Christianity by a catechist
    catechumen.

WordNet

Ne"o*phyte noun
Etymology
L. neophytis, Gr. , prop., newly planted; new + grown, that which has grown, a plant, fr. to grow: cf. F. néophyte. See New, and Be.
Definitions
  1. A new convert or proselyte; -- a name given by the early Christians, and still given by the Roman Catholics, to such as have recently embraced the Christian faith, and been admitted to baptism, esp. to converts from heathenism or Judaism.
  2. A novice; a tyro; a beginner in anything.

Webster 1913