1. a person who favors the interests of native-born citizens over those of immigrants
Usage: political
2. a person who believes that certain skills or abilities are innate rather than learned
Usage: psychology; philosophy

1. relating to or supporting the policy of protecting the interests of native-born citizens against those of immigrants
Usage: political

Examples

• The nativist movement gained support during the economic downturn.
• Nativist policies often restrict immigration and favor native workers.
• The politician’s nativist rhetoric appealed to certain voters.
• Nativist groups organized protests against the new immigration law.
• In psychology, nativists argue that language ability is inborn.
• The debate between nativist and empiricist theories continues in academia.