from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Adopt \A*dopt"\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Adopted}; p. pr. & vb. n.
{Adopting}.] [L. adoptare; ad + optare to choose, desire: cf.
F. adopter. See {Option}.]
1. To take by choice into relationship, as, child, heir,
friend, citizen, etc.; esp. to take voluntarily (a child
of other parents) to be in the place of, or as, one's own
child.
[1913 Webster]
2. To take or receive as one's own what is not so naturally;
to select and take or approve; as, to adopt the view or
policy of another; these resolutions were adopted.
[1913 Webster]