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 of adapter

• accessory
• option
• appliance

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

Note that this machine only sports Thunderbolt 4 ports, so your older accessories might need an adapter. — K. Thor Jensen, PC Magazine, 6 Oct. 2026

For frequent travelers who like to pack light, the Anker Nano 100W universal travel adapter packs multiple USB ports and is equipped with the ability to adapt to outlets in over 200 countries and regions with its US, UK and EU plugs. — Brad Bourque, The Verge, 6 Oct. 2026

Designed with versatility in mind, every strap is interchangeable with the phone adapter that goes right into your own phone case while elevating your outfit for any occasion. — ABC News, 28 Sep. 2026

The project also has adapters designed for charging infrastructure in China and North America. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 20 Sep. 2026

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