'adopt' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'adoptare,' where 'ad-' meant 'to' and 'optare' meant 'choose.'

'adoptare' transformed into the Old French word 'adopter,' and eventually became the modern English word 'adopt' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to choose for oneself,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'to take up and practice' and 'to take into one's family.'