1. having adopted a child; related by adoption rather than birth
2. chosen as one’s own; acquired by choice rather than birth

Examples

• Her adoptive parents raised her with love and care.
• The adoptive family welcomed the child into their home.
• He moved to his adoptive country when he was five years old.
• She considers Chicago her adoptive hometown.
• The adoptive mother attended every school event.
• France became his adoptive nation after he immigrated.
• The adoptive father was proud of his son’s achievements.