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 sport of off-roading suffers from a fundamental discordance: The desire to get out into nature and the irreparable harm inherent in the process of off-roading.
    Tim Stevens, ArsTechnica, 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
  • 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
  • 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
Adjective
  • When work aligns with personal values, intrinsic motivation flourishes.
    AllBusiness, Forbes.com, 18 July 2025
  • Behind that, the bourbon’s intrinsic grain, vanilla, chocolate, and caramel notes buttress the palate, making this a unique sipper that would work really well in an Old Fashioned for coffee lovers.
    Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 17 July 2025
Adjective
  • These resources have been an integral part of plans to build permanent moon bases, which have been brewing for years.
    Jack Knudson, Discover Magazine, 17 July 2025
  • Regardless of whether the house is new or a resale, inspections are an integral part of the home-buying process.
    Halee Miller Van Ryswyk, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 July 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 29 Jul. 2025.

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