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]