adapter

or a·dap·tor

[ uh-dap-ter ]
/ əˈdæp tər /

noun

a person or thing that adapts.
  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 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.
  3. 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.
  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.

Origin of adapter

First recorded in 1795–1805; adapt + -er1

OTHER WORDS FROM adapter

non·a·dapt·er, non·a·dap·tor, noun

Example sentences from the Web for adaptor

British Dictionary definitions for adaptor

adaptor

adapter

/ (əˈdæptə) /

noun

a person or thing that adapts
any device for connecting two parts, esp ones that are of different sizes or have different mating fitments
  1. a plug used to connect an electrical device to a mains supply when they have different types of terminals
  2. a device used to connect several electrical appliances to a single mains socket

Medical definitions for adaptor

adapter

n.

One that adapts.
A connecting part that joins two pieces of apparatus.
A converter of electric current to a desired form.