Definition

A person who supports the idea that certain skills or traits are innate or natural, rather than learned or acquired.

Example

The nativist argued that language ability is something we are born with, not something we learn from our environment.

Conversation

I was reading about the concept of a nativist and found it quite interesting.

Oh really? What did you learn about it?

It seems like a nativist believes that certain skills or ideas are innate rather than learned.

That makes sense, especially in discussions about education and culture.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nativist → It is formed from "native" (from Latin "nativus", meaning born or natural) and "-ist" (meaning one who practices or is concerned with). The word "nativist" refers to a person who advocates for the interests of native inhabitants or is concerned with native culture.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'born' ('nativus') in a place and is concerned with the culture of that place — that's what a nativist is.

Visually Confused Words