multiculturalism

American  

[muhl-tee-kuhl-cher-uh-liz-uhm, muhl-tahy-] / ˌmʌl tiˈkʌl tʃər əˌlɪz əm, ˌmʌl taɪ- /

noun

1. the state or condition of being multicultural.

2. the preservation of different cultures or cultural identities within a unified society, as a state or nation.

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multiculturalism Cultural  

1. The view that the various cultures in a society merit equal respect and scholarly interest. It became a significant force in American society in the 1970s and 1980s as African-Americans, Latinos, and other ethnic groups explored their own history.

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Etymology

Origin of multiculturalism

First recorded in 1960–65; multicultural + -ism

Example Sentences

Canada provides an instructional model for democratic multiculturalism beyond mythologized heritage.

From Salon

For 18th-century enlightened reformers, ethnic diversity and multiculturalism weren’t good things.

From The Wall Street Journal

For generations, the city has prided itself on its multiculturalism.

From BBC

Series creator James Gunn takes aim at that paradigm through “Superman” and its adamant championing of immigrants, multiculturalism and unity.

From Salon

She does miss the multiculturalism of Southern California — “My son will say, ‘Let’s get pho!’ and I have to remind him we’re not in Orange County anymore,” she said with a laugh.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• pluralism