a·dopt ( P ) Pronunciation Key (-dpt)
tr.v. a·dopt·ed, a·dopt·ing, a·dopts
To take into one's family through legal means and raise as one's own child.

To take and follow (a course of action, for example) by choice or assent: adopt a new technique.
To take up and make one's own: adopt a new idea.
To take on or assume: adopted an air of importance.
To vote to accept: adopt a resolution.
To choose as standard or required in a course: adopt a new line of English textbooks.