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Native American
noun
: a member of any of the indigenous peoples of the western hemisphere
especially
: a Native American of North America and especially the U.S. compare american indian
Native American
adjective
Examples of Native American in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
What is Native American Heritage Month? Native American Heritage Month recognizes the traditions, languages and contributions of indigenous peoples in the United States, according to the National Park Service, including Native Americans, Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians and Island communities.
—Jenna Prestininzi, Detroit Free Press, 5 Nov. 2024
The big picture: New Mexico is a mostly Democratic border state where most residents are Hispanic or Native American.
—Russell Contreras, Axios, 31 Oct. 2024
He was subsequently awarded the Heisman Trophy in 1970, becoming the first Latino/Native American and the only Stanford player to ever win the prestigious honor.
—Ignacio Ornelas, The Mercury News, 31 Oct. 2024
November is Native American Heritage Month, and the Milwaukee Public Museum is celebrating with a number of activities and events, starting with some opportunities to get into the museum free.
—Amy Schwabe, Journal Sentinel, 30 Oct. 2024
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Word History
First Known Use
circa 1628, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of Native American was
circa 1628
Articles Related to Native American
Dictionary Entries Near Native American
Cite this Entry
“Native American.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Native%20American. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.
Kids Definition
Native American
noun
: a member of any of the Indigenous peoples of the western hemisphere
especially
: a Native American of North America and especially the U.S. compare american indian
Native American
adjective
More from Merriam-Webster on Native American
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about Native American
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