Definition

1. Noun:
   • A natural or artificial hollow part or opening into which something fits or is inserted: This is the most general meaning, referring to any cavity designed to receive something.
   • A device on a wall or piece of equipment into which an electrical plug or light bulb is inserted to make a connection: Specifically, a receptacle for an electrical connection.
   • A hollow in a bone, especially one into which another bone fits to form a joint: An anatomical term for a bony cavity.

Examples of Usage

• Noun (General hollow):

  • The ball-and-socket joint of the hip allows for a wide range of motion.
  • He placed the gemstone carefully into its socket on the crown.

• Noun (Electrical):

  • Please plug the lamp into the wall socket.
  • The light bulb needs to be screwed into the socket.

• Noun (Anatomical):

  • The eye sits securely in the bony socket of the skull.
  • A tooth fits into a socket in the jawbone.

Advanced Usage

• "To be out of its socket": Dislocated or removed from its proper place, often used for bones.

  • He fell and his shoulder was out of its socket.

• Socket as a verb (less common, technical): To provide with or place into a socket.

  • The technician will socket the new microprocessor onto the motherboard.

Variants and Related Words

• Socket wrench (n): A type of wrench with a hollow end (a socket) that fits over a nut or bolt head.
• Eye socket (n): The bony cavity in the skull that houses the eye; the orbit.
• Wall socket / power socket / outlet (n): A point on a wall where electrical equipment can be connected to the power supply.

Synonyms

• Receptacle: A container or device for holding something.
• Cavity: A hollow space.
• Outlet: A point for electrical connection (specifically for power sockets).

Related Phrasal Verbs/Phrases

(Note: "Socket" is not commonly used in phrasal verbs. Its usage is primarily as a noun.)

Related Idioms

• "A kick in the teeth/socket": A severe setback or disappointment. (A variation of the common idiom "a kick in the teeth").
  • Losing the contract was a real kick in the socket for the team.

Noun

1. a receptacle into which an electric device can be inserted
2. receptacle where something (a pipe or probe or end of a bone) is inserted
3. a bony hollow into which a structure fits