Dictionary entry

Assimilate

Webster's Dictionary 1913

As‐sim″i‐late (�), v. t. [imp. & p. p.Assimilated (�); p. pr. & vb. n.Assimilating (�).] [L. assimilatus, p. p. of assimilare; ad + similare to make like, similis like. See Similar, Assemble, Assimilate.] 1. To bring to a likeness or to conformity; to cause a resemblance between. Sir M. Hale.

To assimilate our law to the law of Scotland.

John Bright.

Fast falls a fleecy; the downy flakes

Assimilate all objects.

Cowper.

2. To liken; to compa�e.

3. To appropriate and transform or incorporate into the substance of the assimilating body; to absorb or appropriate, as nourishment; as, food is assimilated and converted into organic tissue.

Hence also animals and vegetables may assimilate their nourishment.

Sir I. Newton.

His mind had no power to assimilate the lessons.

Merivale.