Synonym Chooser

How is the word indigenous distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of indigenous are aboriginal, endemic, and native. While all these words mean "belonging to a locality," indigenous applies to that which is not only native but which, as far as can be determined, has never been introduced or brought from elsewhere.

indigenous plants

In what contexts can aboriginal take the place of indigenous?

The synonyms aboriginal and indigenous are sometimes interchangeable, but aboriginal implies having no known others preceding in occupancy of a particular region.

the aboriginal peoples of Australia

When could endemic be used to replace indigenous?

While the synonyms endemic and indigenous are close in meaning, endemic implies being peculiar to a region.

a disease endemic in Africa

When is it sensible to use native instead of indigenous?

The words native and indigenous can be used in similar contexts, but native implies birth or origin in a place or region and may suggest compatibility with it.

native tribal customs

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of indigenous With more than 100 different species of indigenous agave and a distillation tradition dating back centuries, Mexico's incredible diversity of mezcal and other agave spirits awaits exploration. Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 18 June 2025 Taiwan—a key security partner of the United States—has begun sea trials of its first indigenous submarine following its unveiling nearly two years ago. Ryan Chan, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 June 2025 The nine-hour event showcases indigenous culture with bird dancing, bird singing, a ceremonial flag raising and a blessing led by Jesse Pinto. San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 June 2025 In our nation, like others dominated by Europeans who decimated indigenous peoples, farmers always had the possibility of owning their own land. Edward Lotterman, Twin Cities, 15 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for indigenous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for indigenous
Adjective
  • The Verdict Lizard Island is rich with history (aboriginal and colonial) and is such an environmental wonder that researchers from around the world come here to study the reef.
    Christopher Cameron, Robb Report, 30 May 2025
  • The American Kennel Club (AKC) explains that village dogs are also known as primitive, aboriginal, or landrace dogs.
    Alyce Collins, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 May 2025
Adjective
  • The strategy carries inherent moral challenges and political risks.
    Morgan Lee, Chicago Tribune, 25 July 2025
  • Unfortunately, this scenario represents a national obsession that has no inherent benefits but also portends deep regret for millions.
    Scott Liftman, Boston Herald, 25 July 2025
Adjective
  • Dani Ceballos has also enjoyed time with his family in Seville, while Brahim Diaz was back in his native Malaga for his ‘Mentalidad Brahim’ football camp for children.
    Guillermo Rai, New York Times, 25 July 2025
  • The dark comedy, satirizing Iranian film censorship and bureaucratic absurdity, draws on Asgari’s own experiences in his native Iran, where he was slapped with a travel ban and had his personal belongings confiscated after showing his film Terrestrial Verses in Cannes Un Certain Regard in 2023.
    Melanie Goodfellow, Deadline, 25 July 2025
Adjective
  • In addition to banking on inviting celebrities and the intrinsic attractiveness of Lake Como as a luxury destination, the club’s new management also pressed on key partnerships and collaborations with the fashion industry in its brand building.
    Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 30 July 2025
  • With mixed evidence that AI enhances productivity or solves problems, instructors should consider how to expose students to AI tools that can help develop intrinsic motivation toward using the technology.
    Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune, 29 July 2025
Adjective
  • The larger issue many families face, however, is not the risk of divorce, but the challenge of what happens when an in-law becomes an integral part of the business and is ineffective in their role.
    Lisa Zeiderman, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2025
  • Just like Coker had steep odds to conquer last year, his path to the Panthers’ roster and then to being an integral part of the offense isn’t without competition.
    Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 1 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • The truth is, digestion is an essential part of the wellness and health conversation.
    Ariana Yaptangco, Glamour, 15 July 2025
  • Justin brings an inherent understanding of my company that is essential for its growth.
    Justin Kroll, Deadline, 14 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Indigenous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/indigenous. Accessed 6 Aug. 2025.

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