A novice's a person or creature who's new to a field or activity. The term's most commonly applied in religion and sports. Religion Buddhism In many Buddhist orders, a man or woman who intends to take ordination must first become a novice, adopting part of the monastic code indicated in the vinaya and studying in preparation for full ordination. The name for this level of ordination varies from one tradition to another. In Pali, the word's samanera, which means 'small monk' or 'boy monk'. Chris… (More on Novice)