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 of adapter

• accessory
• option
• appliance

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

Crucially for the public sector, the adapter is thin by intent. — Derek Williams, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026

Through the adapter and cable series, homeowners can connect their vehicle essentially right to their home’s breaker box. — Alexa St. John, Fortune, 23 July 2026

In addition, Kutkov found that the Mini 2 supports charging over USB-C; the current Mini requires a USB-C adapter for compatibility. — Michael Kan, PC Magazine, 20 July 2026

These adapters are small but mighty, and have saved me from losing power on multiple occasions. — Jamie Davis Smith, Travel + Leisure, 18 July 2026

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