multiculturalism

noun

mul·​ti·​cul·​tur·​al·​ism ˌməl-tē-ˈkəlch-rə-ˌli-zəm 

-ˌtī-, 

-ˈkəl-chə-

: cultural pluralism or diversity (as within a society, an organization, or an educational institution) : a multicultural social state or a doctrine or policy that promotes or advocates such a state

With racial and ethnic diversity increasing across the nation as a result of increased immigration, educational leaders were keen to embrace multiculturalism.

—Diane Ravitch

Successful multiculturalism builds the bonds of community that lead to interracial, interethnic friendships.

—Diane Ravitch

Multiculturalism is a term that has come to serve as shorthand for a host of different and not necessarily related cultural and educational issues. Arguments relating to gender studies, ethnic and racial studies, affirmative action, freedom of speech on campus, compromise and corruption among educational administrators have all been aired under the title, multiculturalism.

—A. E. Barnes

multiculturalist

ˌməl-tē-ˈkəlch-rə-list, 

-ˌtī-, 

-ˈkəl-chə-

adjective

multiculturalist ideas/theories/policies

multiculturalist noun

plural multiculturalists

… in which traditionalists in favor of centering the curriculum on classic works of literature faced off against multiculturalists who wanted to include more works by women and members of minorities.

—Rachel Donadio

Examples of multiculturalism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The case from earlier this year has added to the broader debate about free expression, multiculturalism and the use of safeguarding mechanisms in British schools — the system designed to ensure a safe environment in which children can learn. —Efrat Lachter, FOXNews.com, 10 Dec. 2025

In addition to being a flavorful dish that reflects national multiculturalism through its ingredients, the tamal is full of meaning and historical symbolism. —Paula Soria, AZCentral.com, 10 Dec. 2025

In fact, many nations have prospered without being so monolithic, and there are shades of nationalism, multiculturalism, and liberalism, which allow countries to thrive without making black-and-white choices. —Joshua Rothman, New Yorker, 22 Nov. 2025

The region’s invigorating multiculturalism also allures visitors drawn to calypso music, island cuisine, and its history as a port of entry to the Caribbean. —Lydia Price, Travel + Leisure, 6 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1957, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for multiculturalism

• biculturalism