cultural appropriation
noun
: the adoption of cultural elements (such as clothing, customs, or hairstyles) of a group (usually a minority culture) by members of another group (usually a dominant culture) in a way that is exploitative, disrespectful, or stereotypical
Concerns over the cultural appropriation of a Native American sun symbol have led Madison [Wisconsin] officials to consider redesigning the city's flag, Mayor Paul Soglin said.—Lexy Brodt
That's why cultural appropriation is so detrimental. It is giving us the message that we stole this from you, you can't have it anymore, but we are going to take it and profit off of it.—Korina Emmerich, quoted in Rocky Mountain Collegian
Britain's Best Knitter sparked a 'cultural appropriation' row last week over its 'misrepresentation' of Fair Isle patterns in its first episode.—Claire Elliot
Cite this Entry
“Cultural appropriation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cultural%20appropriation. Accessed 28 Aug. 2026.
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