adopt
UK[əˈdɒpt]US[əˈdɑːpt]
v
To take another person's child into your own family and legally become its parent.
v
To choose to take up, follow, or use something, such as an idea, method, or policy.
Morpheme Breakdown
ad
opt
ad
to, toward
opt
choose
Etymology
The word "adopt" has a direct and logical path from its Latin origins to its modern meanings. It derives from the Latin compound verb adoptare, formed from ad- ("to") and optare ("to choose, wish for"). The literal sense was "to choose for oneself." In Roman law, this term was specifically applied to the legal procedure of choosing and taking a child into one's family. This core legal concept of voluntary, formal selection was retained as the word passed into English via French. Over time, the semantic field broadened beyond the familial context to encompass the general act of choosing to take up and make something one's own, such as a new custom, technology, or strategy.
Analysis
Structure: ad (to, toward) + opt (choose)
- ad: A Latin prefix meaning "to, toward, near." It often indicates direction, addition, or intensification.
- opt: From the Latin verb optare, meaning "to choose, to wish for, to desire."
Examples
They decided to adopt a child from overseas.
Many companies are adopting more flexible working policies.
The government was urged to adopt stricter environmental regulations.