%assimilate%

v. t. [ imp. & p. p. Assimilated p. pr. & vb. n. Assimilating ] [ L. assimilatus, p. p. of assimilare; ad + similare to make like, similis like. See Similar, Assemble, Assimilate. ] 1. To bring to a likeness or to conformity; to cause a resemblance between. Sir M. Hale. [ 1913 Webster ]

To assimilate our law to the law of Scotland. John Bright. [ 1913 Webster ]

Fast falls a fleecy; the downy flakes
Assimilate all objects. Cowper. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. To liken; to compa&unr_;e. [ R. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

3. To appropriate and transform or incorporate into the substance of the assimilating body; to absorb or appropriate, as nourishment; as, food is assimilated and converted into organic tissue. [ 1913 Webster ]

Hence also animals and vegetables may assimilate their nourishment. Sir I. Newton. [ 1913 Webster ]

His mind had no power to assimilate the lessons. Merivale. [ 1913 Webster ]