converter

Everyday

1. A converter is a machine or device that changes something from one form into another, such as electricity, signals or files. tree →
2. A converter is a tool or chart that changes amounts from one unit or currency into another. tree →
3. (cars) A catalytic converter is a part of a car's exhaust that makes the gases less poisonous. tree →

In the lessons

In everyday life you meet plug converters for travel abroad, video and file converters on computers and unit converters on phones (inches to centimetres, pounds to kilograms, dollars to euros). In science, a solar panel is a converter of light energy into electrical energy.

Examples

• We packed a plug converter for our trip to Ireland. tree →
• Use the unit converter to change 10 miles into kilometres. tree →
• A solar panel is a converter of sunlight into electricity. tree →
• The website has a currency converter for pounds and dollars. tree →
• Dad installed a converter so the old TV can get digital channels. tree →
• The car failed its test because the catalytic converter was broken. tree →
• I used a file converter to turn my photo into a smaller picture. tree →

Note

Also spelt convertor (less common). Verb: convert. A plug adapter only changes the shape of the plug; a voltage converter also changes the electricity — using the wrong one can damage a device, so ask an adult.