ək.ˈsɛp.təns ˌæk.sɛp.ˈteɪ.ʃən əˈdɑp.ʃən əˈdɒp.ʃən the appropriation (of ideas or words etc.) from another source the borrowing of ancient motifs was very apparent the act of accepting with approval; favorable reception its adoption by society the proposal found wide acceptance a legal proceeding that creates a parent-child relation between persons not related by blood; the adopted child is entitled to all privileges belonging to a natural child of the adoptive parents (including the right to inherit)