adoptee

noun

adopt·​ee ə-ˌdäp-ˈtē How to pronounce adoptee (audio)
: one who is adopted

Examples of adoptee in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Growing up without the internet — without representation, without connection to others like me — meant that most Korean adoptees were isolated in their White families. Lisa Deaderick, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 July 2025 Both adoptees, the Little House on the Prairie alums bonded over their similar experiences and the role their time on the beloved series played in connecting with their biological families. Liza Esquibias, People.com, 8 July 2025 The lack of background checks for potential adoptees was another concern raised throughout the meeting. Ryan Murphy, IndyStar, 24 Feb. 2025 Zoos, animal exhibits and people with prior experience caring for reptiles could be considered as adoptees for the snakes or rats, the SPCA's post stated. Rachel Raposas, People.com, 2 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for adoptee

Word History

Etymology

adopt + -ee entry 1

First Known Use

1804, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of adoptee was in 1804

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Cite this Entry

“Adoptee.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/adoptee. Accessed 3 Sep. 2025.

Legal Definition

adoptee

noun
adopt·​ee ə-ˌdäp-ˈtē How to pronounce adoptee (audio)
: a person who is adopted

More from Merriam-Webster on adoptee

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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