Find Antonyms

adopt Antonyms

Opposite of adopt

Because the opposite of adopt shifts with each meaning, the 13 antonyms and opposite words below are separated across 4 exact definitions and ranked by contrast strength.
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• verb (Context 1)

To legally take another's child and bring it up as one's own, or to take responsibility for a pet or animal.

Usage Example

"After years of waiting, the couple was finally approved to disown a baby girl."

Strongest
disown
abandon
Strong
forsake
give up

• verb (Context 2)

To choose to take up, follow, or use an idea, method, policy, or course of action.

Usage Example

"Several major universities have decided to reject the new admissions software next semester."

Strongest
reject
discard
abandon
Strong
turn down
spurn

• verb (Context 3)

To assume or begin to display a particular attitude, tone, expression, or posture.

Usage Example

"The professor had to drop a firmer tone when the lecture hall grew too noisy."

Strong
drop
shed

• verb (Context 4)

To formally approve or accept a report, resolution, law, or budget, typically by voting.

Usage Example

"The city council voted unanimously to veto the revised environmental regulations."

Strongest
veto
reject
repeal
vote down

Similar words to adopt

Words similar to adopt shift depending on context. Common synonyms include:

ratify
approve
assume
embrace
pass
take up
enact
take on
See all synonyms of adopt

• Nearby Words

adolescence
adolescent
adolescently
adopt
adoptability
adoptable
adoptee

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Antonyms for Adopt. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/antonyms/adopt
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