Synonyms for

Indigenous

Verb / ˌɪˈndɪdʒʌnʌs / Another word for indigenous — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

originating or occurring naturally in a particular place; native

Synonyms & similar words

endemic autochthonic autochthonous autochthonal native local original aboriginal autochthonous endemic homegrown inherent innate intrinsic natural residential domestic familial household internal inward national patriotic sovereign

Synonyms by register

Formal

aboriginal native autochthonous endemic

Informal

local original first

Literary

autochthonous primordial

Antonyms

imported foreign alien new settler colonist external

Common collocations

  • indigenous people
  • indigenous culture
  • indigenous species
  • indigenous knowledge
  • indigenous population
  • indigenous rights
  • indigenous community

Word family

noun indigeneity
adjective indigenous

Usage note

Often used to refer to the original inhabitants of a region or the native flora and fauna. Be mindful of its historical context, as it can sometimes be associated with colonialism.

Example sentences

  1. The Maori people are indigenous to New Zealand.
  2. The cactus is an indigenous plant of the desert.
  3. The Native Americans are indigenous to North America.
  4. The koala is an indigenous animal of Australia.
  5. The igloo is an indigenous shelter of the Inuit people.

Quotes

  • Indigenous peoples are those who have retained their own ways of being, whose laws, traditions, customs and worldviews have not been extinguished by colonialism.
  • The Indigenous peoples of the world were colonized by successive waves of settlers.
  • Together, we can ensure that Indigenous peoples have a voice in shaping their future.

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