assimilate
UK: əˈsɪmɪleɪt | US: əˈsɪməleɪt
vt. to absorb and integrate (ideas, culture, or people) into a wider society or system
vt. to digest and absorb nutrients into the body
vi. to become similar or adapted to a dominant culture
The word "assimilate" originates from Latin assimilare, combining ad- (meaning "to") and similis (meaning "like" or "same"). The core idea is "to make similar." Historically, it described biological processes (e.g., nutrient absorption) before expanding to cultural and social adaptation. The morpheme simil persists in related words like "similar" and "simile," reinforcing the concept of likeness.
Immigrants often assimilate into the local culture over time.
Plants assimilate carbon dioxide during photosynthesis.
The school aims to help students assimilate new knowledge effectively.
Some communities resist pressures to assimilate.
The body assimilates proteins more efficiently after exercise.