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

After forgetting to pack the right type of adapter and scrambling to charge my devices, the Epicka Air International Adapter now has a permanent place in my tech bag. —Jamie Davis Smith, Travel + Leisure, 4 Apr. 2026

The Bose and Sony headphones come with fully protective travel cases that hold extras, like charging cables and adapters. —Eric Zeman, PC Magazine, 31 Mar. 2026

Book adaptations have become so important in Hollywood that Netflix, a perennial book adapter, said its book-to-screen content found a spot in the streamer’s global Top 10 every week in 2025. —Leah Asmelash, CNN Money, 29 Mar. 2026

The MagGo Qi2 puck doesn’t include a wall adapter, although one is required for use (Anker recommends a 25W adapter that supports Power Delivery). —Cameron Faulkner, The Verge, 26 Mar. 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