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Indigenous person Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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indigenous person

[ɪnˈdɪʤɪnəs ˈpɜːsən ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

native

A person who belongs to a particular place, especially a place where they have lived for a long time and have a strong cultural connection.

Synonyms

aboriginal, autochthonous, native.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
indigenous person

Commonly used in academic and general contexts to describe someone who originates from a particular region or country.

  • Indigenous people have lived in this area for thousands of years.
  • The rights of indigenous persons are protected under international law.
native

Generally used in everyday language to refer to people or things that originate from a specific place. Be cautious as it can sometimes carry negative connotations if not used carefully.

  • She is a native of New York.
  • Several native plants have medicinal properties.
aboriginal

Frequently used in Australia to refer to the first inhabitants of the region, but can also be used more broadly. Ensure political correctness by using the term preferred by the community being discussed.

  • The Aboriginal communities in Australia have rich cultural traditions.
  • She is studying Aboriginal art as part of her degree.
autochthonous

Mainly used in academic, scientific, or formal texts to describe people, plants, or animals native to a region.

  • The autochthonous population of the region has unique genetic traits.
  • Researchers are studying the autochthonous species of insects in the rainforest.

Examples of usage

  • They are the indigenous people of this land.
  • The indigenous person shared stories of their ancestors.
  • The indigenous person performed a traditional dance.
  • The indigenous person explained the significance of the ceremony.
  • The indigenous person's knowledge of the local plants was impressive.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History

  • Throughout history, many indigenous people worldwide have faced challenges such as displacement due to colonization.
  • Key treaties and agreements have been established in various countries to protect the rights of indigenous populations.

Culture

  • Indigenous cultures often have rich traditions, languages, and customs that are passed down through generations.
  • Many indigenous communities maintain a strong connection to their ancestral lands and the natural environment.

Politics

  • Indigenous rights movements focus on land, culture, and self-determination, advocating for recognition and respect.
  • International laws, such as the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, aim to protect their rights globally.

Contributions

  • Indigenous knowledge systems contribute valuable insights into sustainable environmental practices and biodiversity.
  • Traditional art forms, music, and storytelling from indigenous cultures enrich global heritage.

Origin of 'indigenous person'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'indigenous' comes from the Latin term 'indigenus,' which means 'born in' or 'native to.'
  • It has been used since the 17th century to describe the original inhabitants of various regions.

The term 'indigenous person' is derived from the Latin word 'indigena', which means native or original inhabitant of a place. Indigenous peoples are the original inhabitants of a particular region or country, often with a distinct cultural heritage. The concept of indigenous rights has gained recognition in recent years, with a focus on preserving the rights and cultures of these communities. The term is widely used in discussions of social justice, human rights, and environmental conservation.