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

Its wearable adapters strap around everyday shoes, clip in during the ride, and immediately stow away after. —New Atlas, 26 Dec. 2024

In the interim, plug adapters are being utilized to bridge the divide. —Benedict Cosgrove, Newsweek, 18 Dec. 2024

This means that buyers will be able to charge at available Tesla charge stations, as well as at any charge station by using a NACS adapter if needed. —Scotty Reiss, Forbes, 16 Dec. 2024

These are our favorite travel adapters and chargers. —Boutayna Chokrane, WIRED, 16 Dec. 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