Native American

noun

plural Native Americans

: a member of any of the Indigenous peoples of the western hemisphere

especially : a Native American of North America and especially the U.S.

Native American adjective

Examples of Native American in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Warren has some experience with covering over the past as happened when her phony claim of being a blue-eyed Native American Cherokee descendent blew up. —Peter Lucas, Boston Herald, 14 May 2026

The blanket was woven by Naiomi Glasses, a Native American of Navajo descent who worked with the designer on the company’s Artist in Residence program in 2023, creating a collection of apparel and home furnishings based on her weavings. —Jean E. Palmieri, Footwear News, 13 May 2026

Supporters say the change acknowledges harm caused by the excavation and display of Native American remains. —Stepheny Price, FOXNews.com, 12 May 2026

Australian aboriginal peoples, meanwhile, saw a great boomerang in the stellar formation, while the Native American Shawnee tribe envisioned dancing star maidens. —Anthony Wood, Space.com, 9 May 2026

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