adapter

/ə'dæptə/

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Word: Adapter

Part of Speech: Noun

Basic Definition: An adapter is a device that allows something to be used in a different way than it was originally designed for, or it connects different pieces of equipment so they can work together.

Usage Instructions:

• When to use: Use "adapter" when talking about devices that help different tools or equipment work with each other. You can also use it in a broader sense when discussing things that change or adjust to fit new situations.

Examples:

1. Common Use: "I need an adapter to connect my phone charger to the wall outlet."
2. Musical Use: "The musician used an adapter to change the song for a different group of instruments."

Advanced Usage:

In a more advanced context, "adapter" can refer to someone who modifies something, such as a musician who adapts a piece of music for a different style or group of musicians. For example: - "The composer created an adapter version of the symphony for a jazz band."

Word Variants:

• Adapt (verb): To change something to fit a new situation or use. Example: "She had to adapt her plans due to the weather."
• Adaptation (noun): The process of changing something to make it suitable for a new use. Example: "The movie is an adaptation of the popular book."

Different Meanings:

1. General Meaning: Any device that makes two different systems work together (like electrical adapters).
2. Musical Meaning: A person or a version of a piece of music that has been changed to suit different performers or styles.

Synonyms:

• Connector
• Converter
• Modifier

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• "Adapt to": To get used to a new situation.

  • Example: "It took some time to adapt to the new school."

• "Adapt for": To modify something for a specific purpose.

  • Example: "They had to adapt the software for the new operating system."

Academic

Noun

1. device that enables something to be used in a way different from that for which it was intended or makes different pieces of apparatus compatible
2. a musician who adapts a composition for particular voices or instruments or for another style of performance

Synonyms

• adaptor
• arranger
• transcriber