1. policies or attitudes that favor native-born citizens over immigrants
Usage: political science; plural form
2. theories that certain abilities or knowledge are innate rather than learned
Usage: psychology; philosophy; plural form

Examples

• The rise of nativisms across Europe has influenced immigration policies.
• Political parties often exploit nativisms during economic downturns.
• Chomsky’s linguistic theories reflect certain nativisms about language acquisition.
• The debate between nativisms and empiricism continues in developmental psychology.
• Historical nativisms in America led to restrictive immigration laws.
• Modern nativisms often target specific ethnic or religious groups.