Monolingual

/ˌmɒnəˈlɪŋɡwəl/

Meaning & Definition

noun
a person who speaks only one language.
As a monolingual, she found it challenging to communicate with her multilingual classmates.
a thing, such as a book, that is written in only one language.
The library has a wide selection of monolingual texts for language learners.
adjective
using or expressed in only one language.
The monolingual education system in the region made it difficult for non-native speakers to integrate.
pertaining to a person who speaks only one language.
As a monolingual individual, he often struggled when traveling to countries with different languages.
relating to a book or dictionary that provides definitions or information in a single language.
The monolingual dictionary is a valuable resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of English.

Etymology

From the prefix 'mono-' meaning 'one' and 'lingual' relating to language.

Common Phrases and Expressions

monolingual education:
An education system where only one language is used.
monolingual speaker:
A person who can communicate in only one language.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

Language dinosaur
He’s such a language dinosaur; he’s totally monolingual.