adapter

[ uh-dap-ter ]

/ əˈdæp tər /

a person or thing that adapts.

a connector for joining parts or devices having different sizes, designs, etc., enabling them to be fitted or to work together.
Also called plug adapter, adapter plug. a device that connects an electrical plug to an outlet that has a different plug shape: Last time I traveled, I brought the wrong adapter.
Also called AC adapter, power adapter. a device with a cord that plugs into an electrical outlet and functions as an external power supply for a small or portable electronic device, usually converting AC current to DC: I forgot to plug in the adapter, and my laptop died.

an accessory to convert a machine, tool, or part to a new or modified use.

Computers.

expansion card.
an external device containing the necessary circuitry to connect to or work with another device or system: a network adapter; a wireless adapter; a video adapter.

Nearby words

First recorded in 1795–1805; adapt + -er¹

non·a·dapt·er, non·a·dap·tor, noun

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

At one of the last rehearsals, Fawcett, the stage manager, inquired of the adapter if he had written a prologue?
A Book of the Play|Dutton Cook
The prism and eye-piece are then rotated together in the adapter.
Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 13, Slice 2|Various
Mr. Robert Buchanan, the adapter of "the masterpiece," introduced several nineteenth century expressions into the dialogue.
Punch, or the London Charivari, Volume 98, May 17, 1890.|Various
Burton, indeed, hailed the adapter of Omar Khayyam as a "fellow Sufi."
The Life of Sir Richard Burton|Thomas Wright

Signor Ghislanzoni is at best but the adapter in verse and translator of the libretto.
An Englishman in Paris|Albert D. (Albert Dresden) Vandam

One that adapts.

A connecting part that joins two pieces of apparatus.

A converter of electric current to a desired form.