adopt

a-dopt · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    To legally take another's child and bring it up as one's own.

  2. 2.

    To choose to take up, follow, or use something.

  3. 3.

    To take on or assume an attitude, position, or manner.

  4. 4.

    To formally approve or accept a proposal or plan.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    adopt a wait-and-see approach — To delay action until more is known.
  • •
    adopt measures — To implement specific actions or policies.

Related words

Antonyms: abandon, disown, reject
See also: adopted, adoption, embrace, foster
Synonyms: accept, assume, embrace, take on

Etymology

From Latin adoptare ("to choose for oneself"), from ad- ("to") + optare ("to choose, wish").