Definition

Not having adopted the cultural traits or social patterns of another group, especially in the context of immigrants or indigenous peoples.

Example

The unacculturated community maintained its traditional practices despite outside influences.

Conversation

I met someone new at the party last night.

Oh really? How did it go?

It was interesting; they seemed a bit unacculturated to our customs.

That can happen sometimes, especially if they just moved here.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unacculturated → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not), "acculturated" (from Latin "cultura" meaning culture and the prefix "ad-" meaning to or towards, combined with "-ate" which indicates a verb form). The word describes someone or something that has not been assimilated into a particular culture.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being part of a process of 'becoming part of a culture' ('acculturated'). This helps you remember that 'unacculturated' means not having adopted the culture.

Visually Confused Words