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

The current flag, which features a Native American beneath a colonial sword, has drawn criticism for years from Native groups and lawmakers. —Theo Burman, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 Aug. 2025

Those in attendance participated in Native American dancing, while learning crafts taught by tribal elders. —Gregory Harutunian, Chicago Tribune, 25 Aug. 2025

The annual Native American Regalia Showcase remains at the heart of Indian Market. —Christian Allaire, Vogue, 19 Aug. 2025

The manufacturers that produce these gases typically are located in communities where the people are Black, Latino or Native American and earn less money than the state median income. —Noelle Phillips, Denver Post, 16 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1628, in the meaning defined above

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