native language

American

[nay-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.

Other Word Forms

Noun Inflected Forms

native languages

plural

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.

See Examples For:

native language

U.S.-based companies use it to serve Arabic-speaking customers in their native language and dialect.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 19, 2026

Raising roof, the message was clear: optimism is the native language of Walt Disney Concert Hall.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 5, 2026

In his native language, Vozinha translates to “granny,” and he explained to FIFA.com in 2024 how he became known by that name.

From MarketWatch ● Jun. 26, 2026

Pacific island Nauru said it will hold a referendum to change its official name, described as a colonial relic from a time when "foreign tongues" mangled the native language.

From Barron's ● May 13, 2026

I shall teach him my native language and tell him of the beauties of my homeland.

From "Copper Sun" by Sharon M. Draper

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