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
• 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

Cordless hair tools were once a boon for travelers, with their portable, bulk-free designs that didn't require a special adapter when visiting overseas. —Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 28 Aug. 2025

MimiBelt, a brand known for its pregnancy seatbelt adapter, emphasizes that this seemingly small choice carries profound risks. —Lyssanoel Frater, USA Today, 27 Aug. 2025

Schlott then uses an analog telephone adapter to convert the analog signals into digital ones that can travel over the internet. —Mack Degeurin, Popular Science, 27 Aug. 2025

The iPhone 16 Pro Max, for comparison, supports 15W Qi2 standard and maxes out at 25W when paired with a 30W or higher adapter. —Jibin Joseph, PC Magazine, 25 Aug. 2025

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