Dictionary

unadoptable en · ADJ

Etymology

Etymology tree Proto-Indo-European *né Proto-Indo-European *n̥- Proto-Germanic *un- Proto-West Germanic *un- Old English un- Middle English un- English un- English adoptable English unadoptable From un- + adoptable.

Meanings

1. That cannot be adopted; unsuitable for adoption.
   • At Columbia-Greene, staffers go for the most unadoptable animals to save them from euthanasia. The youngest, healthiest, cutest pets are waiting for you. 1998, Elizabeth Hess, Lost and Found:
   • Even children with minor or correctable handicaps such as harelip, cleft palate, crossed eyes, or clubfoot were classed as "unadoptable". 1973, Colette Taube Dywasuk, Adoption — Is It for You?:

Forms