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

Monitor, DisplayPort cable, HDMI cable, USB-C cable, USB-B to USB-A cable, power adapter, color calibration report and VESA mounting screws. —Mark Sparrow, Forbes.com, 3 Apr. 2025

In 2025, these brands will begin manufacturing vehicles with the NACS port, removing the need for an adapter. —Emily Forlini, PCMAG, 25 Mar. 2025

And the ability to use an adapter and plug the Escalade IQ into a Tesla Supercharger entirely changes the game, even if Superchargers can’t max out that 350 kW charge rate. —Michael Teo Van Runkle, Ars Technica, 17 Mar. 2025

The kit also has a welcome book, USB cable, power adapter, 100 ready-to-make projects, and materials to practice with. —Amanda Ogle, Southern Living, 11 Mar. 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