Word
indigenous
Meanings
originating naturally in a particular region; native rather than introduced
relating to the first or long-established peoples of a place and their cultures
Definition
Native to a particular place, rather than introduced from elsewhere.
If something is indigenous, it originally comes from a specific region and developed there naturally over time. The word is often used for plants and animals, as well as for peoples and cultures with deep historical connections to a land. It contrasts with things that are imported, invasive, or brought in later by outsiders.
Examples
- The park’s restoration plan prioritizes indigenous plants to support local insects and birds.
- You can learn a lot about the region by listening to indigenous storytellers and historians.
- He chose indigenous ingredients for the menu to reflect the area’s seasonal identity.
- They mapped indigenous habitats before expanding the hiking trails to reduce disruption.
Common mistake
Learners sometimes use "indigenous" to mean "old" or "traditional" in general, but it specifically means native to a particular place.
More at C1 level
- ubiquitous Present, appearing, or found everywhere at the same time.
- xenophobia Xenophobia is a strong dislike or fear of people from other countries or cultures.
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- conundrum A conundrum is a confusing and difficult problem to solve.
- pretentious Trying to seem more important, intelligent, or cultured than you really are.
More adjectives
- agnostic An agnostic is someone who does not claim to know whether God exists.
- pragmatic Pragmatic means focused on practical results rather than ideals or theories.
- ubiquitous Present, appearing, or found everywhere at the same time.
- cynical Cynical describes believing that people are mainly motivated by self-interest and not sincere.
- apathetic Apathetic means showing little or no interest, concern, or enthusiasm.