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

Boyer had multiple meetings with prospective adapters before the final podcast episode aired. —Rachel Handler, Vulture, 24 Mar. 2025

Ditch the cable clutter in your car with this game-changing wireless adapter. —Stackcommerce Team (sponsored), PCMAG, 8 Mar. 2025

The bags can connect directly to Lansinoh pumps (or other pumps with an adapter). —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 24 Feb. 2025

Lisen Retractable 4-in-1 Car Charger $28 $17 at Amazon A 12-volt power adapter is essential for any old-school vehicle that doesn’t offer an abundance of USB outlets. —Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 20 Feb. 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