# converter

/kənˈvɝtɝ/ (US) · /kənvˈɜːtɐ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/converter
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. technical device

noun · CEFR B2 · Technical

a device that changes something into a different form, such as changing electricity or a computer file type.

For teachers: an apparatus for converting one form of energy, data, or physical state into another.

- You will need a power converter if you want to use your hair dryer in Europe.
- The technician installed a high-frequency signal converter to ensure the legacy hardware could communicate with the modern digital interface.

Usage: Often used with a modifying noun like 'power', 'catalytic', or 'digital'.

### 2. software tool

noun · CEFR B2

a computer program that changes a file from one format to another, like turning a video into an audio file.

For teachers: a software utility designed to translate data from one file format or encoding to another.

- I used an online converter to turn the document into a PDF.
- The developer recommended a batch converter to process the thousands of raw image files into a web-friendly format overnight.

### 3. person changing beliefs

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

someone who has changed their religion or their strong political opinions.

For teachers: a person who has undergone a conversion, particularly in a religious or ideological context.

- As a recent converter to the faith, he attended every study group available.
- The mission reported a significant number of new converters following the community outreach program in the rural provinces.

Teaching tip: While 'convert' is the more common noun for a person, 'converter' is sometimes used to emphasize the person's active role in the change.

## Examples

- The converter changes the voltage for my laptop.
- She used a currency converter to check the price in euros.
- The digital-to-analogue converter translates binary code into sound waves that speakers can reproduce.

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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.