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 30-watt adapter also has a folding plug for even easier storage. —Louryn Strampe, WIRED, 30 Nov. 2024

Just be prepared to hide some cables, don’t expect AAC/AptX wireless audio quality and don’t forget that 30W USB-C power adapter. —Brad Moon, Forbes, 30 Nov. 2024

The adapter is extremely lightweight yet durable, which is perfect for traveling light. —Asia London Palomba, Travel + Leisure, 29 Nov. 2024

Tesla came up with an adapter integrated into those Superchargers so drivers could charge vehicles with CCS ports without needing to bring their own adapter. —Camila Domonoske, NPR, 22 Nov. 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