indigenous

The word “indigenous” means originating naturally in a particular place; native, especially before colonization or outside influence. In plain terms, naturally originating from a specific place, rather than brought in from elsewhere.

“Indigenous” is pronounced ihn-DIHD-zhih-nuhs (/ɪnˈdɪd͡ʒənəs/ in IPA).

Here is “indigenous” used in a sentence: “The plant is indigenous to the rainforests of Brazil.”

Words with a similar meaning to “indigenous” include aboriginal, autochthonous, local and natural.

“Indigenous” is an adjective.

The word “indigenous” comes from Late Latin. From Late Latin indigenus, "native, born in a country," from an old root meaning "born within.".

“Indigenous” is a fairly common word in modern English.

Both mean originating naturally in a particular place, and they overlap closely. "Indigenous" is often used in a more formal or scientific way, and for peoples it specifically refers to the original inhabitants of a place before colonisation or outside influence.

When referring to plants or animals native to a region, "indigenous" is written in lowercase. When referring to Indigenous peoples as a group, many style guides now capitalise it as a mark of respect, as in "Indigenous communities."

"Indigenous" describes something that originates naturally in a place, while "foreign" describes something that comes from elsewhere. A plant indigenous to a region grew there naturally, whereas a foreign one was brought in from another country.

Yes. "Indigenous" applies to any living thing that originates naturally in a particular place, such as a plant or animal native to a region. It is not limited to people, though it is very common in that context.