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
• accessary
• accoutrement
• accouterment
• add-on
• adjunct
• appendage
• appliance
• attachment
• 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

Each outlet is widely spaced, too, to accommodate several big power adapters at once. —Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 May 2025

There are two adapters—one for grounds and one for K-Cups. —Louryn Strampe, Wired News, 24 May 2025

The Starlink Mini kit includes the Mini dish with the integrated router, a power cable, and a power adapter to plug into a standard 120-volt wall outlet. —PC Magazine, 21 May 2025

The new launch also includes a removable dust cover, a 45 RDM adapter, an RCA connecting cable, and other accessories. —Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 15 May 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