Indigenous: meaning, definitions and examples

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indigenous

[ɪnˈdɪdʒɪnəs ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

people

Originating or occurring naturally in a particular place; native.

Synonyms

aboriginal, autochthonous, native, original.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
indigenous	Used to describe people, plants, animals, or cultures that are originally from a specific place, often in discussions about history, anthropology, and ecology. The indigenous tribes have a deep connection to their land. This plant is indigenous to the tropical regions.
native	Used broadly to describe people, animals, or plants from a particular area, focusing on the origin. Can be used in everyday language as well as academic contexts. She is a native speaker of Spanish. This fruit is native to South America.
original	Refers to the first or earliest form of something, often in creative, cultural, or historical discussions to emphasize authenticity or precedence. The original version of the manuscript was lost. These artworks are by the original inhabitants of the region.
aboriginal	Often refers specifically to the original inhabitants of Australia but can be used more broadly in discussions about native peoples around the world. Sometimes it may carry a historical or colonial nuance. Aboriginal art reflects the rich history of the native Australians. The museum has a section dedicated to aboriginal cultures.
autochthonous	A more scientific or formal term to describe something that originated where it is found. Commonly used in geology, biology, and cultural studies. The researchers found autochthonous flora in the remote valley. Autochthonous cultures have unique traditions that have developed independently.

Examples of usage

The indigenous people of Australia have a rich cultural heritage.
The indigenous flora and fauna of the island are protected by law.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

plants/animals

Naturally existing in a particular region or environment.

Synonyms

autochthonous, endemic, local, native.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
indigenous	Used to describe people, plants, animals, or cultures that are originally from a particular place and have not been brought from somewhere else. The indigenous people of Australia have a rich cultural heritage This plant is indigenous to the Amazon rainforest
native	Generally used to describe people, plants, or animals that were originally found in a specific area before being influenced by external factors. It can also relate to one's birthplace. She is a native speaker of Spanish The oak tree is native to this region
endemic	Refers to species or conditions that are native to a particular region and are not naturally found elsewhere. Often used in biology and medicine. This bird species is endemic to Madagascar Malaria was once endemic to many tropical regions
local	Used to describe people, products, services, or characteristics that originate from a particular, usually small, area. It emphasizes proximity rather than origin. We prefer to buy local produce to support neighborhood farmers The local culture here is very welcoming
autochthonous	Typically used in scientific or academic contexts to describe species or phenomena that originate from the place where they are found, without human intervention. The autochthonous fauna of the island has evolved in isolation Autochthonous rocks form in situ through natural geological processes

Examples of usage

The indigenous species of birds are well adapted to the local climate.
Conservation efforts aim to protect the indigenous plants of the area.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'indigena,' meaning 'born in' or 'native.'
It was first used in English in the late 18th century to describe native populations.

Cultural Significance

Indigenous cultures often have rich traditions, languages, and customs that are passed down through generations.
Many indigenous groups around the world have their own unique art forms, including weaving, painting, and music.

Environmental Knowledge

Indigenous peoples often possess extensive knowledge of local ecosystems and sustainable practices, important for conservation.
Their traditional ecological knowledge contributes to biodiversity preservation and climate change resilience.

Global Diversity

There are an estimated 370 million indigenous people in over 90 countries globally, each with distinct languages and cultures.
Indigenous rights movements have emerged globally, advocating for self-determination and cultural identity protection.

Contemporary Issues

Indigenous communities often face challenges such as land rights disputes, cultural preservation, and socioeconomic inequalities.
Recognition of indigenous sovereignty is becoming increasingly important in various nations' legal frameworks.

Translations

Translations of the word "indigenous" in other languages:

🇵🇹 indígena

🇮🇳 स्वदेशी

🇩🇪 einheimisch

🇮🇩 pribumi

🇺🇦 корінний

🇵🇱 rdzenny

🇯🇵 先住

🇫🇷 autochtone

🇪🇸 indígena

🇹🇷 yerli

🇰🇷 토착

🇸🇦 أصلي

🇨🇿 domorodý

🇸🇰 domorodý

🇨🇳 土著

🇸🇮 avtohton

🇮🇸 innfæddur

🇰🇿 тұрғылықты

🇬🇪 მშობლიური

🇦🇿 yerli

🇲🇽 indígena

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,076 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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5073 stuck
5074 patience
5075 borrowed
5076 indigenous
5077 organize
5078 lip
5079 mercury
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