Freshmeat

/ˈfrɛʃmit/ noun

Definition

Slang term for new recruits, inexperienced people, or newcomers to a particular environment or situation.

Etymology

Compound of 'fresh' (new, recent) and 'meat' (flesh, substance). The metaphorical use of 'meat' to mean people developed in military and prison slang, emphasizing vulnerability.

Kelly Says

This rather crude term reflects how institutions often view newcomers as raw material to be processed or consumed. It's particularly common in military contexts, prisons, and competitive environments where experience determines survival.

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