1legally take (another’s child) and bring it up as one’s own:there are many people eager to adopt a baby
2choose to take up or follow (an idea, method, or course of action):this approach has been adopted by many big banks choose and move to (a country or city) as one’s permanent place of residence.
3take on or assume (an attitude or position):he adopted a patronizing tone British choose (someone) as a candidate for office:she was recently adopted as Labour candidate for the constituency formally approve or accept (a report or suggestion):the committee voted 5-1 to adopt the proposal
4British (of a local authority) accept responsibility for the maintenance of (a road).