Synonyms of adopt

adopt

verb

ə-ˈdäpt 

as in to borrow

to take for one's own use (something originated by another)

shortly after moving to the U.S., the family dutifully adopted the American tradition of having turkey for Thanksgiving

Synonyms & Similar Words

• borrow
• embrace
• cultivate
• assimilate
• take up
• follow
• take on
• espouse
• incorporate
• utilize
• use
• imitate
• pick up on
• copy
• appropriate
• absorb
• usurp
• foster
• domesticate
• take over
• honor
• raise
• cherish
• heed
• naturalize
• affect
• simulate
• quote
• treasure
• nurture
• pretend
• arrogate
• assume
• prize
• put on
• bring up
• rear

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• abandon
• relinquish
• surrender
• forsake
• give up
• reject
• renounce
• disown
• abjure
• repudiate
• spurn
• discard
• jettison
• throw away
• throw out
• abnegate
• junk

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb adopt differ from other similar words?

The words embrace and espouse are common synonyms of adopt. While all three words mean "to take an opinion, policy, or practice as one's own," adopt implies accepting something created by another or foreign to one's nature.

forced to adopt new policies

In what contexts can embrace take the place of adopt?

Although the words embrace and adopt have much in common, embrace implies a ready or happy acceptance.

embraced the customs of their new homeland

When might espouse be a better fit than adopt?

While in some cases nearly identical to adopt, espouse adds an implication of close attachment to a cause and a sharing of its fortunes.

espoused the cause of women's rights

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of adopt

Sharon and Louie's happy reunion Louie, a bright orange Maine Coon who had just turned two years old, was adopted by Sharon and quickly became part of her family. —Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 7 Oct. 2025

Porter, a former model and precursor to what is now being considered an influencer—was the mother of Quincy (who Combs adopted), Justin, and twins Jessie and D’Lila. —Essence, 7 Oct. 2025

To adequately support all animals, the shelter is asking community members to adopt, foster, or donate, so that every animal's needs can be met. —Rachel Raposas, PEOPLE, 7 Oct. 2025

The recommendation only obligates actions if the parties choose to adopt it. —Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 7 Oct. 2025