Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

native-tongue

noun
/ˈneɪtɪv tʌŋ/
Definition
A person’s first language or the language they grew up speaking.
Examples
  • Her native-tongue is Spanish, which she speaks fluently.
  • Being immersed in his native-tongue helped him to develop excellent communication skills.
  • Many people find it easier to express their emotions in their native-tongue.
Meaning
The term ‘native-tongue’ refers to the language that a person learned from birth and uses most naturally. It is often tied to cultural identity and personal history.
Synonyms
  • first language
  • mother tongue
  • primary language