Synonyms for

Adoption

Verb / ʌˈdɑ:pʃʌn / Another word for adoption — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Adoption is the act of legally taking someone else's child into your family and raising them as your own.

Synonyms & similar words

acceptation espousal acceptance borrowing fostering

Synonyms by register

Formal

acceptance assimilation incorporation embracement

Informal

taking in picking up taking on

Literary

espousal taking to

Antonyms

rejection abandonment disownment renunciation forsaking refusal

Common collocations

  • child adoption
  • adoption process
  • adoption agency
  • adoption papers
  • legal adoption
  • adoption fee
  • adoption day
  • adoption record

Word family

noun adoption
verb adopt
adjective adoptive

Usage note

While 'adoption' often refers to taking in a child, it can also mean accepting or taking on a new idea, practice, or belief. Be mindful of the context to avoid ambiguity.

Example sentences

  1. My aunt and uncle decided to adopt a baby from another country.
  2. The adoption process can be long and difficult.
  3. After the adoption was finalized, the new parents were overjoyed.
  4. The adoption agency helped the family find the perfect child to adopt.
  5. The laws surrounding adoption vary from state to state.

Quotes

  • "Adoption carries the added dimension of connection not only to your own tribe but beyond, widening the scope of what constitutes love, ties, and family. It is the larger embrace." - Isabella Rossellini
  • "Adoption was a bumpy ride -- very bumpy. But, God, was it worth the fight." - Mariska Hargitay
  • "Every adoption should be made legal as soon as possible." - Lailah Gifty Akita

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