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

These hold your console and games and usually have extra room for cables or adapters. —Brad Bourque, Wired News, 17 June 2025

The adapter is not a proprietary type so just about any 65W power supply with USB-C connectivity should work just fine. —Mark Sparrow, Forbes.com, 9 June 2025

The entry-level, $59.99 Essential pack includes the case components for the console, Joy-Con 2s, and kickstand; a set of selectable Joy-Con 2 skins; and a dock adapter. —Will Greenwald, PC Magazine, 4 June 2025

The pendant light is delivered fully assembled (without bulbs) and includes a sloped ceiling adapter. —Maria Conti, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 June 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