Adapter vs. Adaptor — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on September 18, 2023
"Adapter" and "Adaptor" essentially mean the same: a device converting attributes of one device to another. The difference lies mainly in regional spelling preferences.
Difference Between Adapter and Adaptor
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Key Differences
"Adapter" and "Adaptor" both refer to a device or person that adapts or allows one system to work with another. The variance between the two terms primarily revolves around spelling choices rather than any substantial difference in meaning.
In general usage, "Adapter" is more commonly used in American English, while "Adaptor" is frequently found in British English. Nevertheless, both terms coexist and are understood globally, making them largely interchangeable.
The electronics and tech industry typically prefers "Adapter." You might see "USB adapter" more often than "USB adaptor." However, both versions are grammatically correct and refer to the same concept.
In literature or other contexts, both "Adapter" and "Adaptor" can denote someone who adapts a piece of work, like a book into a screenplay. Again, the choice between the terms may hinge on regional or stylistic preferences.
For those focused on strict linguistic accuracy, it might be helpful to adhere to the standard of the audience's region. However, since both terms are widely accepted and understood, using either won't usually lead to confusion.
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Comparison Chart
Spelling Preference
More common in American English
More frequent in British English
Industry Usage
Often preferred in tech/electronics
Less common in tech, but still valid
Linguistic Roots
From Latin "adaptare"
From Latin "adaptare" with British linguistic influence
Meaning
A device or person that adapts
A device or person that adapts
General Acceptance
Widely accepted and understood globally
Similarly accepted and understood globally
Compare with Definitions
Adapter
An accessory to convert a tool or machine for a new use.
The socket Adapter helped him fit a different sized bolt.
Adaptor
An individual who rearranges a work for a different format.
The novel's Adaptor transitioned the story beautifully into a film.
Adapter
A person who modifies content for a new medium or audience.
The Adapter of the novel did a fantastic job transforming it into a screenplay.
Adaptor
A device permitting compatibility between different systems.
The travel Adaptor was essential during her Europe trip.
Adapter
An attachment in electronics that modifies connections.
She bought a headphone Adapter for her new phone.
Adaptor
An accessory transforming a machine's function.
He used an Adaptor to fit his camera lens to a new model.
Adapter
A mediator facilitating compatibility.
The software Adapter ensures the two applications can share data.
Adaptor
A connector altering electrical or physical connections.
His computer required an Adaptor to connect to the projector.
Adapter
An adapter or adaptor is a device that converts attributes of one electrical device or system to those of an otherwise incompatible device or system. Some modify power or signal attributes, while others merely adapt the physical form of one connector to another.
Adaptor
A facilitator ensuring two entities work together.
The Adaptor synchronized data between the two software programs.
Adapter
A device for connecting pieces of equipment that cannot be connected directly
The adapter converts the lens focal length to 5.5 mm
A tube fixed to the cleaner by means of an adapter
Adaptor
Variant of adapter.
Adapter
A person who adapts a text to make it suitable for filming, broadcasting, or the stage.
Adaptor
Alternative form of adapter
Adapter
One that adapts, such as a device used to effect operative compatibility between different parts of one or more pieces of apparatus.
Adaptor
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
Adapter
See expansion card.
Adapter
One who is capable of adapting to differing situations.
He was an able adapter, and could easily adjust to the differences when the company changed ownership.
Adapter
One who adapts a thing, e.g. a play.
The critic gave rave reviews to the adapter of the ancient play, who worked to give the text more relevance to the modern day.
Adapter
A device or application used to achieve operative compatibility between devices that otherwise are incompatible.
He had an adapter that let him plug his phone into the car's cigarette lighter for power.
Adapter
Specifically, a device that permits two, three, or more plugs to be used at a single electrical power point.
The wall outlet sprouted an electrical monstrosity of adapters plugged into adapters that sparked ominously.
Adapter
Specifically, a device that allows one format of plug to be used with a different format of socket.
We bought adapters to use our three-prong plugs in the two-prong, unpolarized outlets of the old house.
Adapter
Specifically, an AC adapter: a device that reduces voltage and converts AC to DC to allow a battery-powered device to use mains power.
I lost my cellphone's adapter so I couldn't recharge it.
Adapter
One who adapts.
Adapter
A connecting tube; an adopter.
Adapter
A musician who adapts a composition for particular voices or instruments or for another style of performance
Adapter
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
Adapter
A device that connects two different objects.
He used an Adapter to charge his phone overseas.
Common Curiosities
Can they both refer to people?
Yes, both can denote someone who adapts, say, a book into a screenplay.
Which is correct in American English?
"Adapter" is more commonly used in American English.
Is one term more technical than the other?
The electronics industry often prefers "Adapter," but both terms can be technical.
How about in British English?
"Adaptor" is more frequently used in British English.
Is "Adaptor" a Britishism?
It's more common in British English but is understood and used worldwide.
Is one form older than the other?
Both have Latin roots, but the "-or" ending in "Adaptor" is influenced by British linguistics.
Which spelling is more global?
Both are globally recognized; usage depends on regional preference.
In films, who is an "Adapter" or "Adaptor"?
It's someone who modifies a work, like a book, into a screenplay or script.
Are "Adapter" and "Adaptor" synonymous?
Yes, they refer to the same concept but differ mainly in regional spelling.
Which form should I use in academic writing?
Either is acceptable, but consistency within the document is key.
Can an "Adapter" refer to software components?
Yes, it can mean a software module that allows for interoperability.
In electronics, which should I use?
"Adapter" is more typical, but "Adaptor" isn't wrong.
Can "Adapter" and "Adaptor" refer to machine parts?
Yes, both can refer to components that modify machine function.
How do dictionaries define them?
Dictionaries typically list them with similar definitions, noting regional spelling differences.
Does the medical field use these terms?
Yes, both terms can refer to devices that modify or facilitate specific functions, such as in respiratory equipment.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
