What does it mean to assimilate?

To assimilate means to become similar to one's environment or to adopt the characteristics of the surrounding culture or group. This term is often used in contexts such as cultural assimilation, where individuals or groups adopt the traits of another culture, which can involve language, customs, and social norms. The process of assimilation can occur naturally as people interact within a community, leading to greater social cohesion and shared identity over time. Understanding this concept is crucial when discussing how individuals adapt to their environments, whether in social, cultural, or even biological contexts.