adapter

noun

adapt·​er ə-ˈdap-tər How to pronounce adapter (audio)
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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
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 See all Example Sentences for adapter 

Word History

Etymology

adapt + -er entry 2

First Known Use

1753, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of adapter was in 1753

Dictionary Entries Near adapter

Cite this Entry

“Adapter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/adapter. Accessed 11 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

adapter

noun
adapt·​er
variants also adaptor
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
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

More from Merriam-Webster on adapter

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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