Definition

To change or adapt to a different culture, often by adopting its customs and practices.

Example

As immigrants settle in a new country, they often acculturate to the local customs and traditions.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I’ve been thinking about how people acculturate in new environments.

That’s interesting! It must be a big adjustment for them.

Yeah, I wonder how long it takes to really acculturate to a different culture.

It probably varies a lot from person to person, doesn’t it?

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To help a group or society adopt the cultural traits or social patterns of another group.

Example

The new policies were designed to acculturate immigrants into the local community.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you noticed how some cultures acculturate over time?

Yeah, it's interesting to see how traditions change.

I wonder what factors really influence that process.

Root Explanation

Acculturate is formed from "ad-" (meaning to) and "cultura" (meaning culture). The word describes the process of adapting to or adopting the cultural traits of another group.

Memory Tip

Think of 'ad-' meaning 'to' and 'cultura' meaning 'culture' — this helps you remember that acculturate means to adapt to another culture.

Visually Confused Words