The word “converter” refers to a device or tool that changes something from one form, function, or state to another. In different contexts, it can mean:
1. **Electrical Engineering**: A device that converts electrical energy from one form to another, such as converting AC (alternating current) to DC (direct current).
2. **Technology**: Software or hardware that transforms data from one format to another, such as a file converter that changes a document from one file type to another (e.g., PDF to Word).
3. **General Use**: Any mechanism or process that changes or transforms something, such as a currency converter that changes money from one currency to another.
Overall, a converter is characterized by its function of transformation or change.