adapter vs fastener

adapter

noun
  • One who is capable of adapting to differing situations. 

  • 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. 

fastener

noun
  • Something or someone that fastens. 

  • Mechanically, any device that fastens; especially, a collective term for items such as screws, nuts, washers, clasps, bolts and the like. 

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