1. the process of absorbing, incorporating, or making similar. In making judgments, for example, it refers to finding similarities between the target being judged and features of the context in which it is judged. Thus, meeting a person at an enjoyable party could lead to a more positive evaluation of that person than would have been the case otherwise. The evaluation of the person has been assimilated toward the positive social context. Compare contrast.

2. the process by which an immigrant to a new culture adopts the culture’s beliefs and practices. This is more properly called social assimilation. See also acculturation strategies.

3. see Piagetian theory. —assimilate vb.