autóctono

indigenous

adjective ow-TOK-toh-noh Rare

Origin: From Greek autókhthon (self + earth), meaning originating in the place itself.

Also means

native

Usage Note

Autóctono stresses that something originated in the very place it is found, stronger than nativo. It applies to species (flora autóctona), peoples, and cultural practices. Unlike indígena, which often implies ethnic identity, autóctono is more broadly ecological or cultural and carries no inherent political weight.

Examples

"Este animal es autóctono de la región."

Natural Translation

This animal is native to the region.

Related Words

Explore Spanish by topic

SpanishNow

Spanish Subjunctive Explained Simply for Beginners

The Spanish subjunctive is a mood, not a tense — use it after a WEIRDO trigger plus que. Learn the one rule, the yo-form recipe, and the lines you already say.

June 9, 2026 5 min read

SpanishNow

Por vs Para in Spanish: One Mental Model, No Acronyms

Por looks backward at cause and path; para looks forward at goal and destination. Master por vs para in Spanish with one mental model — no acronyms needed.

June 3, 2026 6 min read

SpanishNow

How to Tell Time in Spanish: A Beginner's Guide

Tell time in Spanish with one formula: es la una vs son las, y and menos for minutes, plus de la mañana, en punto, and 24-hour station times.

June 9, 2026 5 min read

SpanishNow

Ser vs. Estar: When to Use Each in Spanish

Ser vs estar made simple: how you feel and where you are use estar, everything else uses ser. Master the rule, the exceptions, and the traps that flip meaning.

June 3, 2026 6 min read