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

Although there are some lens adapters available, they aren’t guaranteed to work. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 21 Jan. 2026

The cable has a neat clip-on USB-A adapter so the SSD can be used with legacy devices. —Mark Sparrow, Forbes.com, 17 Jan. 2026

This compact Bluetooth audio transmitter adapter allows Case to connect her own headphones to the in-flight entertainment system. —Chaise Sanders, Travel + Leisure, 16 Jan. 2026

Apart from the PowerBank batteries, the division also sells charging adapters and tech for using the vehicle itself as a backup battery for a home. —Robert Ferris, CNBC, 15 Jan. 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