Meaning of the word co-opt in English

What does co-opt mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

co-opt

US /koʊˈɑːpt/
UK /kəʊˈɒpt/

Verb

1.

to elect someone to a committee or group by the agreement of the existing members rather than by popular vote

Example:
The committee decided to co-opt a new member to fill the vacant position.
They were co-opted onto the board without a formal election.
2.

to take control of something and use it for your own purposes

Example:
The government tried to co-opt the protest movement by addressing some of its demands.
The company tried to co-opt the independent artists by offering them lucrative contracts.