endemic
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˌɛnˈdɛmɪk/
KK: /ɛnˈdɛmɪk/
adjective
Definition
Relating to a species or condition that is native to and restricted to a specific area or environment.
Example
The disease is endemic to the region, affecting only the local population.
Conversation
Did you know that some species are endemic to just this island?
Really? I didn’t realize that!
Yeah, it’s fascinating how certain plants and animals can only survive here.
It makes me appreciate the local environment even more!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
native
local
regional
Antonyms
foreign
exotic
uncommon
noun
Definition
A species of plant or animal that is found only in a specific area or region and is not naturally found anywhere else.
Example
The island is home to many endemic species that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.
Conversation
Did you know that this area has a lot of endemic species?
Really? I had no idea there were so many unique plants around here.
Yeah, it's fascinating how some organisms are only found in specific locations.
Root Explanation
Endemic → It is formed from "en-" (meaning in or within) and "demos" (meaning people or population). The word "endemic" refers to a disease or condition that is regularly found and consistently present within a particular area or among a specific population.
Memory Tip
Think of something that exists "within" a certain "population" — that's why endemic refers to something that is native or regularly found in a specific area.
Visually Confused Words
edemic
ecdemic
nonendemic
entodermic
endodermic
tenesmic
pandemic
epidemic