Word of the Day
March 17, 2021
Acculturation
The process by which individuals or groups adopt the cultural traits or social patterns of another group, particularly through prolonged contact, while maintaining aspects of their original culture.
From Latin 'ad-' (to) + 'cultura' (cultivation, culture). First used in English in the 1880s by anthropologists studying how cultures change through contact with one another.
Usage Examples
- The acculturation of immigrant families often results in children who speak both their heritage language and English fluently.
- American cuisine reflects centuries of acculturation, blending Italian, Mexican, Chinese, and countless other culinary traditions.
- Successful acculturation allows newcomers to participate fully in civic life while preserving their unique cultural contributions.
From the Show
Brad Beck championed acculturation over identity politics during the St. Patrick’s Day discussion, describing how his Presbyterian wife’s Jewish cooking and his stepdaughter’s embrace of Passover traditions exemplify the American melting pot at its best.