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

• adoptability noun
• nonadoptable adjective
• unadoptable adjective

Etymology

Origin of adoptable

First recorded in 1835–45; adopt + -able

Example Sentences

This is another typical outcome of an adoptable dog going viral; it’s easy to like a post, but it doesn’t always result in any action.

From Slate • Sep. 4, 2025

But in some cases of unadopted developments, the value of the bond is not enough to cover the cost of extensive repair works needed to bring it to an adoptable standard.

From BBC • Feb. 13, 2025

Do you feel like “Puppy Bowl” has impacted the public’s perception of what dogs are “more” or “less” adoptable?

From Salon • Feb. 9, 2025

Dogs that had been labeled adoptable to the public were now being marked for euthanasia, the email said.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 22, 2024

During the 1980's, this occurred in the oil market, the art market, the market for adoptable children, and in new stock market offerings.

From The Civilization of Illiteracy by Nadin, Mihai