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

Other accessories available to purchase include a snack tray, a parent organizer, and a car seat adapter that pairs with more than 40 different models of infant car seats. —Laura Lu, Parents, 14 Aug. 2025

Both Thunderbolt ports are on one side, though: putting them on the left and right would have allowed flexibility for plugging in the power adapter. —Charles Jefferies, PC Magazine, 10 Aug. 2025

More from Mark Phelan: Buying a cheap EV charging adapter could cost you thousands. —Mark Phelan, Freep.com, 10 Aug. 2025

These can plug into a wall socket through an adapter but can also operate off a power bank in an emergency or power cut. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 18 July 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