Adopt

Definition

Adopt is a verb meaning to take up, follow, or start to use an idea, method, or practice. It also refers to legally taking another’s child as one’s own.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈdɑpt/
• Respelling: uh-DOPT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈdɒpt/
• Respelling: uh-DOPT

The pronunciation of "adopt" is similar in both American and British English, with a slight difference in the vowel sound of the second syllable.

Etymology

The word "adopt" comes from the Latin word "adoptare," meaning "to choose for oneself," which is a combination of "ad-" (to) and "optare" (to choose or desire).

Derivatives

• Adoption (noun)
• Adoptive (adjective)
• Adopter (noun)
• Adoptable (adjective)
• Pre-adopt (verb)

Synonyms

• Embrace
• Accept
• Take on

Antonyms

• Reject
• Abandon
• Disown

Usage

The term "adopt" is often used to describe the process of taking on a new practice or legally bringing a child into one's family. For example, "The organization decided to adopt a new policy."

Related Terms

• Adapt: To modify or adjust to fit new circumstances.
• Foster: To temporarily take care of a child or animal.
• Integrate: To incorporate or blend into a larger whole.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To take on or start to use something, especially a new idea, method, or practice: Used to describe the adoption of a new approach or concept.
  • Example: "The company decided to adopt a new strategy."
• To legally take another's child as one's own: Refers to the act of legally becoming the parent of a child not born to oneself.
  • Example: "They decided to adopt a child from overseas."
• To take on a specific role, identity, or manner: Describes the act of assuming a new role or persona.
  • Example: "He began to adopt a more formal tone in his speeches."