adopt

views updated May 23 2018

a·dopt / əˈdäpt/ • v. [tr.] legally take another's child and bring it up as one's own: there are many people eager to adopt a baby. ∎  take up or start to use or follow (an idea, method, or course of action): this approach has been adopted by many big banks. ∎ take on or assume (an attitude or position): adopt a slightly knees-bent position. ∎  formally approve or accept (a report or suggestion): the committee voted 5–1 to adopt the proposal. ∎  choose (a textbook) as standard or required for a course of study. ∎  choose (an animal) to become a house pet: the best way to know a dog's traits is to adopt a mature dog.DERIVATIVES: a·dopt·a·ble adj.a·dopt·ee / -ˈtē/ n.a·dopt·er n.

adopt

views updated May 29 2018

adopt XV. — (O)F. adopter or L. adoptāre choose for oneself; see AD-, OPT.
So adoption XIV, adoptive XV.

Adopt

views updated May 11 2018

ADOPT

To accept, appropriate, choose, or select, as to adopt a child. To consent to and put into effect, as to adopt a constitution or a law.

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