# adaptor

/əˈdæptɝ/ (US) · /ɐdˈæptɐ/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/adaptor
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

a small device that lets you join two things that do not fit together, like a plug and a wall socket.

For teachers: a device that enables connection between incompatible plugs, sockets, or systems, or that converts power or signals for use by different equipment.

## Examples

- I use an adaptor to charge my phone abroad.
- She packs a universal travel adaptor whenever she flies to countries with different wall sockets.
- The photographer carries a set of lens adaptors that allow vintage glass from the 1970s to function on a modern digital body.

## Synonyms

adapter

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.