Wrapper

Convert the interface of a class into another interface the clients expect. Adapter lets classes work together that couldn't otherwise because of incompatible interfaces.

Use the Adapter pattern when

• you want to use an existing class, and its interface does not match the one you need
• you want to create a reusable class that cooperates with unrelated or unforeseen classes, that is, classes that don't necessarily have compatible interfaces
• you need to use several existing subclasses, but it's impractical to adapt their interface by subclassing every one. An object adapter can adapt the interface of its parent class.

• java.util.Arrays#asList()
• java.util.Collections#list()
• java.util.Collections#enumeration()
• javax.xml.bind.annotation.adapters.XMLAdapter

• Design Patterns: Elements of Reusable Object-Oriented Software
• J2EE Design Patterns