1
as in tinkerers
a person who regularly or occasionally engages in an activity as a pastime rather than as a profession
an amateur photographer who has won a number of photo contests
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in beginners
a person who lacks experience and competence in an art or science
a homemade doghouse that looked like it was built by an amateur who hadn't mastered basic carpentry
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of amateurs
Musk, who owns X, wants to promote the belief that the truth can be found on social media, and that the practitioners of real journalism are allegedly independent amateurs, such as Shirley, who can ask questions without being cowed by the woke agenda.
—
Jay Caspian Kang, New Yorker, 6 Jan. 2026
Costly athletic hobbies Wealthy amateurs are spending big money to compete in endurance events around the world.
—Alexandra Banner, CNN Money, 18 Dec. 2025
There are cheerful barging amateurs, happy to be bounced about, and there are prowling malevolences, waiting for the moment to blindside someone or chuck an elbow in their face.
—James Parker, The Atlantic, 16 Dec. 2025
Houseplant amateurs will also appreciate this plant mister, which should remind them to water their plants.
—Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Dec. 2025
This is the dream gift for all sorts of chefs, bakers, professionals, and amateurs.
—Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 1 Dec. 2025
Walmart has managed to undercut Amazon's price by over $250, making this a steal for pro-level photographers, or amateurs looking to go pro.
—Chris McMullen, Space.com, 24 Nov. 2025
Notable amateurs elected to Congress include Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Lauren Boebert and Marjorie Taylor-Greene.
—Jeff Harden, The Conversation, 3 Nov. 2025
But according to a new analysis by Climate Central, climate change is threatening the optimal conditions that help elite runners break world records and amateurs achieve their personal bests.
—Matthew Glasser, ABC News, 27 Oct. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for amateurs
Noun
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Micron’s Crucial brand sold memory on sticks that tinkerers could use to build their own PCs or upgrade their laptops.—
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The Ringbrothers Kingpin was unveiled at the Specialty Equipment Market Association show (SEMA) in Las Vegas, which is a haven for aftermarket wizards, tuners, and auto tinkerers of all stripes.—
Noun
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For beginners, a version using two light dumbbells is a good introduction.—
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There are even lessons for beginners who may want to start a new hobby over the winter.—
Noun
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Toyota Motor Company has an incredibly diverse portfolio that can appeal to budget-conscious drivers and sports car enthusiasts alike.—
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This cornbread recipe doesn't call for even a teaspoon of sugar—savory cornbread enthusiasts will be happy to know.—
Noun
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In May 2025, Chris shared a photo of Mel with their three kids in celebration of Mother’s Day.—
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That was a big benefit for Chef Johan Jensen, co-owner of Whitecrest Eatery in Stonington Borough, Connecticut, who, after initially experimenting with it from a culinary perspective, was attracted to beef tallow to cook cleaner for his kids.—
Noun
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For decades, Popular Science has highlighted the work of hobbyists.—
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There are accounts with millions of followers and a flock of smaller hobbyists, all posting near-interchangeable updates on what’s for sale.—
Noun
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Most of the 31 playoff novices — accounting for roughly 58% of the 53-man roster — were along for the entire ride and played key roles in helping to get Carolina to the postseason.—
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Canon offers a wide range of DSLR cameras for novices and professionals alike.—
Cite this Entry
“Amateurs.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/amateurs. Accessed 13 Jan. 2026.
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