local

adjective
lo·​cal | \ ˈlō-kəl How to pronounce local (audio) \

Definition of local

 (Entry 1 of 2)

1 : characterized by or relating to position in space : having a definite spatial form or location
2a : of, relating to, or characteristic of a particular place : not general or widespread
b : of, relating to, or applicable to part of a whole
3a : primarily serving the needs of a particular limited district
b of a public conveyance : making all the stops on a route
4 : involving or affecting only a restricted part of the organism : topical a local anesthetic
5 : of or relating to telephone communication within a specified area

local

noun

Definition of local (Entry 2 of 2)

: a local person or thing: such as
a : a local public conveyance (such as a train or an elevator)
b : a local or particular branch, lodge, or chapter of an organization (such as a labor union)
c British : a nearby or neighborhood pub

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Synonyms for local

Synonyms: Noun

affiliate, branch, cell, chapter, council

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Examples of local in a Sentence

Adjective

We had dinner at a local restaurant. The police have arrested a local man for the crime. This is a local shop for local people: we don't get many outsiders here. She took the local bus.

Noun

He's the president of the union local at the factory. the truck drivers are members of Local 349 of the Teamsters' Union
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Recent Examples on the Web: Adjective

Two years earlier local jihadists had shot up a pilgrims’ tour bus, killing eight. The Economist, "India abruptly ends the last special protection enjoyed by Kashmir," 6 Aug. 2019 That causes squid and butterfish, which aren’t good puffin food, to dominate local waters, Major said. Washington Post, "Atlantic puffins pairs are plentiful this year, Audubon scientist says," 6 Aug. 2019 This is the latest in a series looking back on the sports accomplishments of the local high schools during the 2018-19 year. Vincent Nguyen, Burbank Leader, "Looking Back: Providence excels amidst challenges in new league," 6 Aug. 2019 Dayton police said Betts obtained his weapon legally, ordering it online from Texas and picking it up at a local gun shop. Rich Schapiro, NBC News, "Dayton shooter's gun called an 'orchestra of metal and hellfire'," 6 Aug. 2019 Fears include the escalating trade war, depreciating yuan and the local political situation. Fortune, "Hong Kong Stocks Are Having Their Worst Streak Since 1984," 6 Aug. 2019 The cars have supplemented local bus and train service by getting riders to stations. New York Times, "Driverless Cars Arrive in New York City," 6 Aug. 2019 Read his stories and more local coverage on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. Randy Diamond, ExpressNews.com, "Airport Director Russ Handy to depart as future of San Antonio airport is decided," 6 Aug. 2019 Art exhibit: Peg’s Gallery, along with community supporters, celebrated its current exhibition Homecoming with a reception featuring local artist Victoria Lewis. Shirley Macfarland, cleveland.com, "Councilman Langshaw hosts annual picnic to benefit local resident Joe Keider: Talk of the Towns," 2 Aug. 2019

Recent Examples on the Web: Noun

YouTube TV offers more than 70 channels, plus locals, for $49.99, and Sling offers packages at prices ranging from $25 to $60, plus a free antenna to watch local channels. Ron Hurtibise, sun-sentinel.com, "New AT&T TV streaming service available in only one Florida city — for now," 20 Aug. 2019 In a rural corner of Missouri where both patients and hospitals are going broke, a grim cycle has taken hold: The hospital that helps sustain its rural community sues locals for unpaid medical bills, and bankrupts them. Los Angeles Times, "Newsletter: Today: What two rallies tell us about the 2020 race," 19 Aug. 2019 But for other locals, such as Frog Hollow resident Wilfredo Molina, the jobs have proven insufficient. Alex Putterman, courant.com, "Jobs, with a catch: Dunkin’ Donuts Park positions mostly low-paying, seasonal for Hartford residents," 14 Aug. 2019 Some locals, the Left — and then many ordinary Americans disliked us too. Philip P. Ardery Jr., National Review, "Upon a Time in Woodstock," 10 Aug. 2019 Instead of sneakily taking photos of locals, try to engage them in conversation and then ask to take their picture. Natalie B. Compton, The Know, "Photographers spill their tips for capturing the best shots while traveling," 6 Aug. 2019 This would reduce the need for evacuating and inconveniencing locals, as well as minimize launch costs. Eric Berger, Ars Technica, "Rocket Report: China discovers grid fins, NASA acknowledges Starship program," 2 Aug. 2019 Five of the remaining 16 surfers that entered competition Wednesday were San Clemente locals, having made it through two heats on Saturday when the event started with 64 competitors. Joe Haakenson, Daily Pilot, "Four surfers from San Clemente advance in U.S. Open Pro Men’s Juniors," 31 July 2019 The Ferry Plaza Farmers Market has set the standard for farmers markets around the world, showcasing the highest quality produce and products in the region, and attracting locals, chefs, and visitors alike. SFChronicle.com, "Ferry Plaza Farmers Market tour," 23 July 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'local.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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First Known Use of local

Adjective

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 4

Noun

1591, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for local

Adjective

Middle English localle, from Late Latin localis, from Latin locus place — more at stall

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More Definitions for local

local

adjective

English Language Learners Definition of local

 (Entry 1 of 2)

: relating to or occurring in a particular area, city, or town
: located or living nearby
of a bus or train : making all the stops on a route

local

noun

English Language Learners Definition of local (Entry 2 of 2)

: a person who lives in a particular area, city, or town : a local person
: a train or bus that makes all of the stops along its route
US : a local part of a labor union

local

adjective
lo·​cal | \ ˈlō-kəl How to pronounce local (audio) \

Kids Definition of local

 (Entry 1 of 2)