1. The policy of perpetuating native cultures (in opposition to acculturation)
   "The indigenous group advocated for nativism to preserve their traditional way of life"
    
2. (philosophy) the philosophical theory that some ideas are innate
   "Chomsky's theory of language acquisition is often cited as an example of nativism"

Derived forms: nativisms

Type of: philosophical doctrine, philosophical theory, social policy

Encyclopedia: Nativism