noob

A noob is a beginner, or someone who plays like one. It comes from “newbie,” and while it can describe someone who is just new, it is often used as an insult for someone who keeps making basic mistakes.

What does noob mean?

Calling yourself a noob is usually humble or self-deprecating: “I’m a total noob at this game, go easy on me.” Calling someone else a noob is usually a jab, especially when they have been playing for a while and should know better. In gaming chat you will also see it spelled “n00b” or shortened to “nub.”

How to use it

• “Sorry, I’m still a noob. What does this button do?”
• “Who walks straight into the enemy base? Absolute noob.”
• “Noob question, but how do I change my username?”
• “Everyone was a noob once. Be nice.”

Noob vs. newbie

Many gamers separate the two. A newbie (or “newb”) is simply new and willing to learn, which is fine. A noob is someone who plays badly and doesn’t seem to improve, or refuses advice. In everyday use the line is blurry, and tone does most of the work.

The word also spread well beyond games. “Noob question” is a common way to start a beginner’s question in any online community.

Related terms

• git gud: what people tell noobs who complain
• smurf: a skilled player on a new account, beating beginners
• try-hard: someone putting in way too much effort
• pwned: completely beaten
• GG: “good game”

See more terms like this in our gaming slang dictionary.