adoptable

American  

[uh-dop-tuh-buhl] / əˈdɒp tə bəl /

adjective

1. capable of being adopted; suitable or eligible for adoption.

   an adoptable child; a resolution found to be adoptable.

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noun

1. a child who is considered suitable for adoption.

   fewer adoptables than in previous years.

Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• adoptability
  noun
• nonadoptable
  adjective
• unadoptable
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of adoptable

First recorded in 1835–45; adopt + -able

Example Sentences

“POV: you are at an adoption event and all the adoptable dogs are getting attention except for …” the video reads as the camera pans before landing on Bob and me.

From Slate • Sep. 4, 2025

The lack of animal medical care has led to overcrowded shelters, a rise in pet illnesses and an increasing rate of adoptable animals being euthanized, according to the survey.

From Los Angeles Times • May 20, 2025

A spokesperson for DfI said it is developing new enforcement guidelines to deal with developers that "have not fulfilled their responsibility to provide infrastructure to an adoptable standard".

From BBC • Feb. 13, 2025

Galaxy's concern is that the label could make some kittens and cats less adoptable.

From Salon • Dec. 6, 2024

But, in default of any explanation, he determined that the only adoptable line of defence was the one already formulated; to wit, that in slaying Weldon his client was temporarily deranged.

From The Truth About Tristrem Varick A Novel by Saltus, Edgar