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

In fact, this travel adapter can charge up to six devices simultaneously. —Katie Jackson, Travel + Leisure, 15 Mar. 2025

One reason Ford drivers might prefer other brands is that using Superchargers requires an adapter. —Emily Forlini, PCMAG, 11 Mar. 2025

Two Schrader-to-Presta valve adapters are stored inside the hollow handle, along with a ball needle adapter. —Ben Coxworth, New Atlas, 7 Mar. 2025

The Netflix adaptation of the August Wilson play also counts Denzel Washington as a producer, his son Malcolm as co-writer and adapter and eldest son John David as Boy Willie, Berniece's brother. —Jack Smart, People.com, 8 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

adapt + -er entry 2

First Known Use

1753, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for adapter

• adaptor
• subchapter
• apter
• captor
• chapter
• raptor

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