indigenous
/ɪnˈdɪd͡ʒənəs/ adjective C2- Native to a land, especially before colonization. · The Aboriginals were indigenous to Victoria before the World War.
- In particular, of or relating to a people (or their language or culture) that inhabited a region prior to the arrival of people of other cultures which became dominant (e.g., through colonialism), and which maintains a distinct culture. · The Ainu are the indigenous ethnic group of Japan's Hokkaido Island.
- Innate, inborn.
- Original to a geographical area. · That style of pottery is indigenous to that region.
From the library
While English is the dominant tongue today, the indigenous Irish language has left an indelible mark on its vocabulary and structure.
Moreover, her capacity to identify edible and medicinal indigenous vegetation supplemented the meager rations of the crew, sustaining their physical fortitude during times of scarcity.
However, her most consequential role manifested in her capacity as an irreplaceable linguistic intermediary between the explorers and the numerous indigenous communities they encountered.
Navigating a complex web of indigenous dialects, Sacagawea facilitated crucial dialogues, translating nuanced concepts through a convoluted chain of intermediate languages.
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