greenie: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowInformal, Slang
Quick answer
What does “greenie” mean?
A slang term primarily for an environmentalist or a person who supports or promotes environmental causes. Also used in sports to refer to a beginner or newcomer.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A slang term primarily for an environmentalist or a person who supports or promotes environmental causes. Also used in sports to refer to a beginner or newcomer.
In Australian and New Zealand English, it can refer to a novice or inexperienced person. In golf, it can be slang for the putting green. In some US contexts, it can refer to a member of the Green Party. Historically used in baseball to describe a rookie.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In the UK, it is primarily understood as a slang term for an environmentalist. In the US, the term is more common but has wider applications: it can also mean a novice (e.g., in sports), a Green Party supporter, or a golf term. In Australia/NZ, it strongly carries the meaning of 'novice'.
Connotations
In the UK, it can be slightly pejorative or journalistic slang. In the US, connotations vary more widely: from neutral (sports) to slightly mocking (politics/activism).
Frequency
More frequent in journalistic or conversational speech than in formal writing. Its use spikes around environmental or political discussions.
Grammar
How to Use “greenie” in a Sentence
[possessive] + greeniethe + greenie + [verb group]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “greenie” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- [not commonly used as a verb]
American English
- [not commonly used as a verb]
adverb
British English
- [not commonly used as an adverb]
American English
- [not commonly used as an adverb]
adjective
British English
- He has some very greenie ideas about transport.
American English
- The proposal was seen as too greenie for the conservative council.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. May appear in informal discussions about corporate social responsibility or public image ('appeasing the greenies').
Academic
Not used. 'Environmental activist' or 'conservationist' are preferred.
Everyday
Used in casual conversation to refer to someone with strong environmental views or a beginner.
Technical
Not used in scientific contexts.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “greenie”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “greenie”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “greenie”
- Using it as a formal or respectful term for an environmentalist.
- Assuming it only means a member of the Green Party.
- Confusing it with 'green' as an adjective meaning inexperienced.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is informal slang and can often be used in a slightly dismissive or patronizing way. 'Environmentalist' is the neutral, polite term.
Yes, primarily in Australian, New Zealand, and some North American contexts, especially in sports or workplaces.
It can be, particularly in the US and UK, where it's used informally for a member or supporter of the Green Party.
Both are informal. 'Tree hugger' is more explicitly derogatory and implies impractical, overly emotional activism. 'Greenie' can range from descriptive to mildly pejorative.
A slang term primarily for an environmentalist or a person who supports or promotes environmental causes. Also used in sports to refer to a beginner or newcomer.
Greenie is usually informal, slang in register.
Greenie: in British English it is pronounced /ˈɡriːni/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈɡrini/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[no specific idioms for this word]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'green' for the environment + '-ie' for a person, like 'foodie' for a food lover.
Conceptual Metaphor
ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN IS GREEN (COLOR) / INEXPERIENCE IS UNRIPENESS.
Practice
Quiz
In Australian slang, a 'greenie' is most likely to be: