VocabDictionary

digital native

/ˈdɪdʒ.ɪ.təl ˈneɪ.tɪv/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

A person born or brought up during the age of digital technology and therefore familiar with computers and the internet from an early age.

Example Sentences:
  • As a digital native, she intuitively understood how to navigate the complex software without reading the manual.
  • Companies are increasingly tailoring their marketing strategies to attract digital natives who prefer mobile-first experiences.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “digital native”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Coined in 2001 by educational theorist Marc Prensky in an essay titled 'Digital Natives, Digital Immigrants,' the term draws an analogy between growing up in a specific physical country (and thus being a native of its culture and language) versus growing up surrounded by and using computers, the internet, and digital technology from birth.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of someone who was born ('native') with a smartphone or computer screen glowing right in front of them ('digital').

Frequently Asked Questions About “digital native

1. What is the meaning of “digital native” in English?

In English, digital native (noun) is defined as: “A person born or brought up during the age of digital technology and therefore familiar with computers and the internet from an early age.”.

2. How do you use “digital native” in a sentence?

As a digital native, she intuitively understood how to navigate the complex software without reading the manual.

3. What are English synonyms of “digital native”?

Common synonyms include:tech-savvy youth,millennial,Gen Z

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “digital native”?

Coined in 2001 by educational theorist Marc Prensky in an essay titled 'Digital Natives, Digital Immigrants,' the term draws an analogy between growing up in a specific physical country (and thus being a native of its culture and language) versus growing up surrounded by and using computers, the internet, and digital technology from birth.