assimilation

Other Definitions
assimilation (dict)

Assimilation, from Latin assimilatio meaning "to render similar", is used to describe various phenomena:

The process of assimilating new ideas into a schema (cognitive structure). See schema (psychology). In the theories of Jean Piaget, the application of a general schema to a particular instance).
In psychoanalysis, a mutual penetration of conscious and unconscious contents.
A linguistic process by which a sound becomes similar to an adjacent sound. See Assimilation (linguistics).
In linguistics assimilation may also refer to the process of integrating a loanword, and if needed adapt it, into the system of the receiving language.
The conversion of nutrient into the fluid or solid substance of the body, by the processes of digestion and absorption. See Assimilation (biology).
The ability of water to purify itself of pollutants.
The process whereby a minority group gradually adopts the customs and attitudes of the prevailing culture. See Assimilation (sociology).
In economy, the absorption of a new issue by the public after all shares have been sold by the underwriting group.
In computer science, the modification of anti-virus software to detect a new virus.
In typesetting, the symmetry property possessed in varying degrees by a typeface that creates mirror relationships and other similarities of form between letters
Process used by the fictional Borg race to integrate a being into the collective structure. See Assimilation (Star Trek).

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