Definition

The act of taking someone or something into a group or organization, often without their consent or by manipulating the situation.

Example

The committee's cooption of new members was seen as a way to control the decision-making process.

Conversation

Did you hear about the cooption of that community project by the new organization?

Yeah, it seems like they’re trying to take over everything lately.

It's frustrating because the original team worked so hard on it.

I know, right? It feels unfair when they just swoop in like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cooption is formed from "co-" (meaning together) and "optare" (meaning to choose). The word describes the act of choosing or selecting someone or something together with others, often implying a collaborative or inclusive process.

Memory Tip

Think of 'choosing together' — 'co-' means together, and 'optare' means to choose.

Visually Confused Words