digital native

[ dij-i-tl ney-tiv ]

noun

, Digital Technology.

1. a person who has been familiar with computers, the internet, and other digital technology from a young age. Compare digital immigrant.

digital native

noun

1. informal.
   a person who has been familiar with information technology since childhood Compare digital immigrant analogue

Word History and Origins

Origin of digital native¹

First recorded in 2001; coined by Marc Prensky, born 1946, American educator and consultant, on analogy with a native speaker of a language

Example Sentences

Already this generation of digital native students are taking computer classes in high numbers.

From Los Angeles Times

No wonder millennial parents presume their “digital native” kids will be even more obsessed.

From Washington Post

I’m cringing as I type this, but I pride myself on being a digital native.

From Slate

"A digital native form of safe central bank money could enhance stability by providing the neutral trusted settlement layer in the future financial system," Rehn said, echoing recent comments by U.S.

From Reuters

Media analysts attribute Mr. Travers’s popularity to his ability, as a digital native himself, to understand what appeals to young people.

From New York Times