differences - Which is the proper spelling: "Adapter" or "adaptor"?


In my current project we are writing a program to convert a newer protocol to an older one.


These conversion programs are being referred to as adapters, but the team cannot agree which spelling to use: adapter or adaptor.


I personally plump for adapter, as adaptor sounds like its a person (like actor, realtor, etc.) rather than a device.


Is there a case for using one rather than the other?



Answer



Both are commonly used and listed in dictionaries, but adapter (with an e) is usually listed as the more common - see, for example, Merriam Webster or the Cambridge dictionary. It's not a strong basis for choosing one over the other, but it might be enough to settle the matter in your case :).


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