Adoption Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐จโ๐ฉโ๐งโ๐ฆ
adoption
[ษหdษpส(ษ)n ]
Definitions
family
The act of legally taking another person's child and bringing them up as one's own.
Synonyms
adoption agency, custody, fostering.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| adoption |
Use when referring to the legal process of taking another person's child into one's family and raising them as one's own.
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| fostering |
Use when referring to temporarily taking care of a child whose biological parents are unable to care for them, with the possibility of the child returning to their biological family.
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| custody |
Use when referring to the legal right and responsibility to care for a child, often used in contexts of divorce or separation.
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| adoption agency |
Use when talking about organizations that facilitate the adoption process, helping connect adoptive parents with children in need.
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Examples of usage
- They decided to go through the adoption process to expand their family.
- The couple was overjoyed when they finally received the adoption papers.
animal
The process of taking an animal into one's home to be cared for and loved as a pet.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| adoption |
When someone legally takes a child or pet into their home and officially becomes their parent or owner. It can be used in formal contexts and is generally seen as a positive and long-term decision.
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| rescue |
Refers to saving animals from harmful or dangerous situations, often by taking them in from abusive homes or environments. It is usually associated with positive actions and is often used by animal welfare organizations.
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| rehome |
When an existing owner finds a new home for a pet, usually because they can no longer take care of it. It is less formal than 'adoption' and typically viewed as a responsible act when done correctly, but can sometimes have a negative impression if done frequently.
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| shelter |
A place that provides temporary housing and care for homeless or abandoned pets. Often used in the context of temporary housing solutions for animals until they can be adopted or rehomed.
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Examples of usage
- The local shelter had many dogs available for adoption.
- She decided to visit the animal shelter to inquire about cat adoption.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Origin of 'adoption'
The word 'adoption' comes from the Latin word 'adoptare', which means 'to choose for oneself'. The concept of adoption has been present in various cultures throughout history, often as a way to ensure the continuation of a family line or provide care for children in need. Modern adoption practices focus on the well-being and rights of the child, with legal processes in place to facilitate the transfer of parental rights.
See also: adopt.