IPA: /ˈæməˌtʃʊr/
KK: /ˈæmətʃər/
A word used to describe someone who is not a professional in a particular activity or field, often indicating a lack of skill or experience.
The amateur actors put on a surprisingly good performance.
Comparative: more amateur
Superlative: most amateur
A person who participates in a hobby, sport, or activity for enjoyment rather than as a job. This person may not have the same level of skill or experience as a professional.
Despite being an amateur, she showed great talent in painting.
Amateur is derived from the French word 'amateur' (meaning lover), which comes from the Latin 'amator' (meaning lover), from 'amare' (meaning to love). The word refers to someone who engages in a pursuit out of love or passion rather than for professional reasons.
Think of someone who 'loves' ('amare') what they do, which is why an amateur is someone who participates in an activity for the love of it, not for money.