native language

American  

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

Often first language

noun

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

   Many Diné children learn Navajo as a native language.

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Etymology

Origin of native language

First recorded in 1425–75 as natife langage

Example Sentences

Players have been accused of downing tools, while Marc Cucurella and Enzo Fernandez have appeared openly critical of the project in interviews in their native language.

From BBC • May 16, 2026

The tiny nation's native language is "Dorerin Naoero", which is spoken by the vast majority of its approximately 10,000 inhabitants.

From Barron's • May 13, 2026

“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

I went and performed a song from my tribe in my native language.

From "How Dare the Sun Rise" by Sandra Uwiringiyimana