English Reference
noun

adapter

n.
US /əˈdæptɝ/ UK /ɐdˈæptɐ/ adapter UK spelling adapters

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate Computing

    a device that lets you connect two pieces of equipment that were not designed to fit together.

    a hardware device or component used to achieve operative compatibility between otherwise incompatible interfaces or systems.

    Simple

    I needed a travel adapter to plug my laptop into the wall in London.

    In context

    The technician used a specialized adapter to bridge the legacy hardware with the modern digital interface, ensuring data could flow without interruption.

    Usage

    Often used with 'for' or 'to' to specify the connection type.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Formal Theatre

    a person who changes a book or a play so it can be made into a film or television show.

    a person who modifies a literary or artistic work for a different medium or purpose.

    Simple

    The adapter of the novel won an award for the screenplay.

    In context

    As a skilled adapter of classical texts, she managed to preserve the original's poetic meter while making the dialogue accessible to a contemporary audience.

    arrangereditor
  3. 03 C2 Proficiency Formal

    someone who is good at changing their behavior to fit into new situations.

    an individual capable of adjusting their behavior or strategy to suit differing environmental or social conditions.

    Simple

    He is a quick adapter who feels at home in any country.

    In context

    In a rapidly shifting corporate landscape, the most successful executives are often those who prove themselves to be versatile adapters to new technology.

    adjuster

From adapt + -er.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated