What term is used for the process of cultural change resulting from meeting between cultures?

The term "acculturation" specifically refers to the process of cultural change that occurs when individuals or groups from one culture come into contact with another culture. This interaction often leads to the adoption of certain traits or customs from the other culture while potentially retaining aspects of the originating culture. Acculturation can result in changes in language, religion, social norms, and other cultural elements.

While "cultural adaptation," "cultural exchange," and "cultural fusion" address related themes, they each convey different nuances. Cultural adaptation generally refers to the process by which individuals adjust to a new culture, focusing more on the individual's or community's response rather than the mutual exchange between cultures. Cultural exchange emphasizes the sharing of cultural elements but does not inherently suggest a change or adaptation process initiated by contact. Cultural fusion involves a blending of cultures to create a new, distinct culture, which may occur as a result of acculturation but does not capture the full scope of the initial contact and influence. Thus, "acculturation" is the most accurate term for the described phenomenon of cultural change through cultural meetings.