CultureAugust 15, 2026

unadoptable

un-uh-DAP-tuh-bul

Definition

Describing an animal in a shelter that appears unsuitable for adoption due to behavioral or health issues, often due to stress.

Etymology

Derived from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not', combined with 'adopt' from the Latin 'adoptare', meaning 'to choose for oneself', and the suffix '-able' denoting capability.

In the news

The article explains that stressed shelter animals may behave in ways that make them seem unadoptable, but they often thrive once moved to a calmer, temporary home.

New Jersey cat saved from an overcrowded shelter goes from 'wouldn't eat' to a forever home

Read the full article ↗

The Cool Down

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