adapter vs appendage

adapter

noun
  • One who adapts a thing, e.g. a play. 

  • Specifically, a device that allows one format of plug to be used with a different format of socket. 

  • Specifically, an AC adapter: a device that reduces voltage and converts AC to DC to allow a battery-powered device to use mains power. 

  • A device or application used to achieve operative compatibility between devices that otherwise are incompatible. 

  • Specifically, a device that permits two, three, or more plugs to be used at a single electrical power point. 

  • One who is capable of adapting to differing situations. 

appendage

noun
  • A part that is joined to something larger. 

  • An external body part that projects from the body. 

  • A natural prolongation or projection from a part of any organism. 

How often have the words adapter and appendage occurred in a corpus of books? (source: Google Ngram Viewer )