adoption
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /ədˈɒpʃən/
US
- /əˈdɑpʃən/
Description
- legal parenthood of a child
- taking someone in as one's own
- acceptance or use of an idea, policy, or practice
Adoption isn't just about families! While it most often refers to the legal process of becoming a parent to a child who is not biologically yours, adoption also means willingly accepting and using something new. You might adopt a stray kitten, or your company might adopt a new marketing strategy. It implies taking responsibility for something and making it part of your life or system. Think of it as opening your heart—or your business—to something that needs a home.
Adoption is about more than just legal paperwork; it's about love, commitment, and building a family through choice. Just like adopting a new habit, it requires effort and dedication. A town might adopt a new policy or ordinance, officially making it part of how things are done. The key is welcoming something into your existing world.
Adoption carries a beautiful weight—it's a word steeped in love, commitment, and the creation of family bonds. Most commonly, adoption refers to the legal process in which parents provide a permanent home and raise a child who isn't biologically their own. It's a journey filled with joy, challenges, and an unwavering dedication to nurturing a young life. It serves as a powerful testament to how love transcends biology, proving that family is defined by connection rather than genetics.
However, adoption extends beyond the realm of family law. The word also describes the act of willingly accepting or embracing something new. A company might adopt a new technology to improve efficiency, meaning they integrate it into their operations. Scientists adopt theories and methodologies as they build upon existing knowledge. You might even adopt a pet from an animal shelter, offering them a loving home.
This broader sense of adoption implies taking responsibility for something—whether it's a child, a practice, or an idea—and making it your own. It's about choosing to welcome something into your life and providing the care and support it needs to thrive. A community might adopt a park, committing to its upkeep and preservation.
So, whether you're picturing a loving family welcoming a child, a business embracing innovation, or simply opening your heart to a new possibility, adoption is about choice, commitment, and the power of belonging. It's a word that speaks volumes about love, responsibility, and the beautiful ways families—and communities—are built.
Examples
- 1
Legal process
After two years of paperwork, the adoption was finally approved.
- 2
Pet adoption
The shelter holds a pet adoption event every Saturday.
- 3
Child placement
She was put up for adoption when she was a baby.
Phrase
put someone up for adoption
arrange for another family to legally raise them
- 4
Family records
He found out more about his birth family after seeing his adoption records.
- 5
Workplace policy
The company's adoption of remote work changed how people communicate.
- 6
Technology adoption
Widespread adoption of electric cars will depend on better charging stations.
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- adoptionnoun
Forms
- adoptionspluralnoun