Synonyms for

Aboriginal

Verb / ˌæbɜ:ˈɪdʒʌnʌl / Another word for aboriginal — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

relating to the original people who lived in a country or region

Synonyms & similar words

aboriginal australianaborigine primeval indigene native nonnative primaeval abo primordial indigen aborigine nativeaustralian primal native indigenous original tribal autochthonous heritage ancestral primitive primordial ancient pre-colonial pre-invasion pre-settlement aborigine indigene native-born natural-born autochthonal

Synonyms by register

Formal

indigenous native original autochthonous

Informal

local first people

Literary

primordial ancient

Antonyms

new recent imported foreign settler colonist

Common collocations

  • aboriginal people
  • aboriginal culture
  • aboriginal art
  • aboriginal land
  • aboriginal rights
  • aboriginal population
  • aboriginal languages

Word family

noun aborigine
adjective aboriginal

Usage note

While 'aboriginal' can refer to any original inhabitant, it is most commonly used in reference to the Indigenous peoples of Australia. Use with sensitivity and respect, often preferring terms like 'Indigenous Australians' or specific tribal names when appropriate.

Example sentences

  1. The aboriginal people of Canada have a rich history and culture.
  2. The aboriginal art of Australia is famous around the world.
  3. The aboriginal tribes of Africa have unique customs and traditions.
  4. The aboriginal languages of South America are diverse and complex.
  5. The aboriginal people of North America have suffered from colonization and displacement.

Quotes

  • The history of aboriginal people in this country is often tragic and always complex.
  • Australian aboriginal art is not just a bunch of dots, as many people believe.
  • The aboriginal tribes of the Amazon rainforest have an intimate knowledge of the plants and animals in their environment.

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words