Definition

A student who is in their first year at a high school, college, or university.

Example

As a freshman, she was excited to start her college journey.

Conversation

Hey, how's it going with your classes this semester?

It's going well! Being a freshman is a bit overwhelming, though.

I can imagine! Have you made any friends yet?

Yeah, I met a few people in my dorm, so that helps a lot.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Freshman → The word is formed from "fresh" (from Old English *fresc*, meaning new or recently made) and "man" (from Old English *mann*, meaning person or human). A freshman is a new person, particularly in the context of a school or college, indicating someone who is in their first year.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'new' ('fresh') to a place, like a school, and 'man' just means a person. This helps you remember that a freshman is a new person in their first year.

Visually Confused Words