adapter

American  

[uh-dap-ter] / əˈdæp tər /

Or adaptor

noun

1. a person or thing that adapts.

2. 1. a connector for joining parts or devices having different sizes, designs, etc., enabling them to be fitted or to work together.

   2. Also called adapter plug.  Also called plug adapter,.  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.

   3. Also called power adapter.  Also called AC 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.

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

4. Computers.

   1. expansion card.

   2. 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.

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Other Word Forms

• nonadapter noun
• nonadaptor noun

Etymology

Origin of adapter

First recorded in 1795–1805; adapt + -er ¹

Example Sentences

Unless you carry a suitcase full of gadgets, cables and adapters, you’re risking every kind of tech frustration.

From The Wall Street Journal

This handy gadget taps into any nearby Wi-Fi connection — and if there’s no Wi-Fi to be had, you can always use a 4G-dongle or ethernet-USB adapter to utilize the same service.

From Salon

He said he ran into the shop, where he saw an adapter charging system - full of chargers - under the counter and a small fire.

From BBC

"There was an adapter charging system - full of chargers - and the fire comes out of that."

From BBC

To charge it at home, I used my Level 2 charger with an adapter, since China uses different plugs.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• connection