adapter

noun

adapt·​er ə-ˈdap-tər 

a-

variants or less commonly adaptor

1

: one that adapts

2

a

: a device for connecting two parts (as of different diameters) of an apparatus

b

: an attachment for adapting apparatus for uses not originally intended

Synonyms

• accessory
• accessary
• accoutrement
• accouterment
• add-on
• adjunct
• appendage
• appliance
• attachment
• option

Examples of adapter in a Sentence

adapters for the food mixer include a meat grinder and an ice cream maker

Recent Examples on the Web

The other issue is that the adapter has been in and out of stock. —Anthony Karcz, Forbes, 20 Oct. 2024

Some companies like Kia, Ford, and Rivian will or have been providing the adapter for free, while others like GM will sell one for a price. —Umar Shakir, The Verge, 15 Oct. 2024

Headphone Jack Adapter Save 22% on this handy headphone jack adapter during October Prime Day. —Kasey Caminiti, USA TODAY, 8 Oct. 2024

Even better, this one is compatible across numerous platforms thanks to the USB-C cable with adapter for PC, Mac, PlayStation, and so on. —Gabriela Vatu, PCMAG, 3 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

adapt + -er entry 2

First Known Use

1753, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Kids Definition

adapter

noun

adapt·​er

variants also adaptor

ə-ˈdap-tər 

1

: someone or something that adapts

2

a

: a device for connecting two parts (as of different diameters) of a usually larger device

b

: an attachment for adapting a device for uses not originally intended

Medical Definition

adapter

noun

adapt·​er

variants also adaptor

ə-ˈdap-tər 

1

: one that adapts

2

a

: a device for connecting two parts (as of different diameters) of an apparatus

b

: an attachment for adapting apparatus for uses not originally intended