1. a policy or ideology that advocates the absorption of minority groups into the dominant culture of a society, often requiring them to abandon their own cultural identity and practices.
Usage: often used in historical and sociological contexts; frequently discussed in relation to immigration and ethnic relations

Examples

• The government's assimilationism policy required immigrant children to speak only English in schools.
• Critics argue that assimilationism erases the cultural heritage of minority communities.
• Assimilationism was a dominant approach to immigration policy in the early 20th century.
• Many scholars have challenged the assumptions underlying assimilationism.
• The debate between assimilationism and multiculturalism continues in contemporary society.