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native language

American

[ney-tiv lang-gwij] / ˈneɪ tɪv ˈlæŋ gwɪdʒ /

Often first language

noun

a language that a person acquires fully through extensive exposure in childhood.

Many Diné children learn Navajo as a native language.

Etymology

Origin of native language

First recorded in 1425–75 as natife langage

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“You hear RM say in the songwriting session, ‘This is not my native language.’

From Salon • Mar. 27, 2026

Because we use our native language daily over decades, these patterns become deeply embedded, making communication smoother and less demanding.

From Science Daily • Feb. 20, 2026

"But I think that some basic knowledge, such as mathematics, should be taught in one's native language."

From Barron's • Feb. 6, 2026

Encouraged by her lecturers in the Netherlands, Róis began exploring her Irish heritage more deeply and has since committed to learning and performing in her native language.

From BBC • Dec. 31, 2025

Schulwerk uses the native language, sounds, timbres, rhythms, melodies, and tonal material surrounding the child, particularly in its folk music repertoire.

From "Music and the Child" by Natalie Sarrazin

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023