Noob
From Airsoft Community Wiki
Shortened form of "newbie," the most hilarious insult ever invented, in which a person who plays a game too much is ridiculing one who does not, for being "new" at the game, which of course they once were. Generally speaking, the speaker of this "insult" is one who should be on the receiving end of most insults. Commonly found in allegiance with "l33t" or "leetspeak," the accepted language of computer geeks which takes a ludicrous amount of time to type. (i.e. 57fu n00b, ju57 cu5 u 4m 73h 5uck l0lz)
Also known as an FNG standing for F***ing New Guy!
The connotations of the terms "noob" or "newbie" have been a source of marked debate, with many questioning whether such a label is derogatory, or light-hearted and endearing. It has been suggested that variations on the spelling of the term, while being phonetically identical, have different meanings. The spelling 'newb' is taken to mean someone new to an activity, in the literal sense of the term 'newbie'. However, the more common spelling 'noob' (often written as 'n00b' in numericalised form), is seen as a more derogatory reference, often insinuating arrogance and a refusal to accept one's downfalls.
Advocates of the latter argue that human society has always been hierarchical, and in subcultures, organizations, and social structures which depend on the admittance of new members, distinguishing them from the body proper has always been a rite of passage - from the acolytes of the Benedictine Monks, to the "probies" of the FDNY. As a consequence, being an Airsoft "newbie" is something one grows out of in time, and through simply fighting, learning, and meeting new people, an inexperienced Airsofter can pass beyond its veil. In short, the label of "noob" is transitory. In a hobby/sport based on meritocratic endeavour, the label is one a determined Airsofter will grow out of depending on their own determination and participation in the sport.
