Definition

1. Noun:
   • A flexible, insulated electrical cable designed to connect an appliance or device to a power source, typically a wall outlet. It consists of one or more conductors (wires) encased in a protective sheath.

Usage

• Noun:
  • The electric cord for the lamp was too short to reach the outlet.
  • Always check that the electric cord is not frayed or damaged before plugging in the device.
  • He neatly coiled the electric cord and stored it in a drawer.

Advanced Usage

• "To trip over an electric cord": A common hazard where someone's foot catches on a cord lying on the floor.
  • Be careful not to trip over the electric cord from the projector.
• "Extension electric cord": A longer cord with a plug on one end and one or more sockets on the other, used to extend the reach of a standard cord. (Note: This is a compound term listed here as it is a common variant).
  • We needed an extension electric cord to power the tools in the backyard.

Variants and Related Words

• Power cord: A common synonym.
• Mains lead (UK English): Another term for an electric cord.
• Cable: A more general term that can include electric cords, data cables, etc.
• Wire: Often refers to a single conductive strand, but can be used informally for a cord.

Synonyms

• Power cable
• Flex (informal, especially UK)
• Line cord

Related Phrases

• To plug in (a cord): To insert the plug of an electric cord into an outlet.
  • Please plug in the electric cord so we can turn on the computer.
• To unplug (a cord): To disconnect by removing the plug from the outlet.
  • Remember to unplug the electric cord when you're finished charging your phone.

Idioms

• "To be cut from the same cord": This is not a standard idiom for "electric cord." The common idiom is "to be cut from the same cloth," meaning to be very similar in character.

Noun

1. a light insulated conductor for household use