Search Dictionary
Definition of local

local

/ˈloʊkəl/
lo · cal

Adverb:locally
•
Plural:locals
JUMP TO:

local Lexical Profile

local Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Belonging or relating to a particular area, neighborhood, or city.

Example

"The community center was built specifically to serve the needs of local residents."


2

Affecting or confined to a particular, limited part of the body.

Example

"The dentist administered a local anesthetic before extracting the problematic tooth."


3

Restricted to a particular scope or block of execution, especially referring to a variable in computer programming.

Example

"A local variable can only be accessed within the specific function where it is defined."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for local
Antonyms
View all antonyms for local

• noun

1

A person who lives in a particular place or district.

Example

"The popular seaside pub is mostly frequented by locals rather than summer tourists."


2

British A pub or tavern located close to one's home.

Example

"After a long week at the office, they headed down to the local for a quiet pint."


3

North American A local branch or chapter of a labor union or other large organization.

Example

"She was elected president of the union local after organizing a successful campaign."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for local
Antonyms
View all antonyms for local

• Rhymes for local

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English, via Old French from Late Latin 'localis', meaning 'pertaining to a place', derived from the Latin root 'locus' (place).

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Local. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 16, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/local
Wordmom is your complete guide to the English language. Whether you're looking up a definition, searching for the perfect synonym, or unscrambling letters for a word game, our comprehensive suite of tools is designed to help you find the right word, every time.
Dictionary & Reference
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE®, Words With Friends®, Wordle®, and related game titles or tournament codes are registered trademarks of their respective owners (including Hasbro, Mattel, Zynga, The New York Times, NASPA, and WESPA). Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes, not affiliated with, sponsored, or endorsed by these entities. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use for compatibility.