A native is a person or thing that originates or is naturally found in a particular place or environment. In the context of people, it typically refers to someone who is born and raised in a specific region, often with strong cultural, social, or ancestral ties to that place. The term can also refer to plants, animals, or species that are indigenous to a particular area, having evolved or existed there over time without human introduction. The concept of being “native” contrasts with being an immigrant or settler, who comes from another land.
Sample Sentences
- The native people of the island have lived there for centuries, maintaining their traditions.
- She is a native of Brazil and speaks Portuguese fluently.
- The native plants of this region are well adapted to the dry climate.
- Many native animals are now endangered due to habitat destruction.
- He is a proud native who carries the customs of his ancestors.
- The tribe’s native language is spoken by only a few elders now.
- The native foods of the area are rich in flavors and spices.
- As a native, he felt a deep connection to the land and its history.
- The native birds in this forest are rarely seen outside of this region.
- The native art of the region reflects a long history of craftsmanship and culture.
Synonyms for “Native”
- Indigenous
- Local
- Aborigine
- Autochthonous
- Original
- Inborn
- Born-and-bred
- Homegrown
- Natural
- Original inhabitant
Antonyms for “Native”
- Immigrant
- Foreigner
- Outsider
- Settler
- Colonizer
- Non-native
- Migrant
- Expatriate
- Alien
- Stranger
Related Words for “Native”
- Nativity
- Indigenousness
- Homeland
- Indigenous people
- Ancestry
- Origin
- Heritage
- Birthplace
- Root
- Originality
Phrasal Verbs for “Native”
- Come from (e.g., “She comes from a small town in the mountains.”)
- Grow up in (e.g., “He grew up in a native village near the river.”)
- Be born in (e.g., “She was born in the native village and returned after many years.”)
- Settle in (e.g., “He chose to settle in his native land after years abroad.”)
- Live in (e.g., “They live in their native country and practice their traditional customs.”)
Idiomatic Expressions for “Native”
- Home is where the heart is (e.g., “No matter where he goes, his heart will always belong to his native land.”)
- Roots run deep (e.g., “Her roots run deep in her native village, and she is proud of her heritage.”)
- A fish out of water (e.g., “He felt like a fish out of water when he moved from his native country to a foreign city.”)
- By birthright (e.g., “He has a claim to the land by birthright, as he is a native of the area.”)
- A native son/daughter (e.g., “The local community welcomed the returning native daughter with open arms.”)