Definition

Noun: A wall socket is a fixed electrical device installed in a wall, providing a point where electrical appliances can be connected to the mains power supply. It contains one or more outlets (or receptacles) into which a plug is inserted to complete an electrical circuit.

Usage

The term "wall socket" refers specifically to the installed outlet on a wall or similar fixed structure. It is the point of interface between a building's electrical wiring and portable electrical devices. - Always use "wall socket" to describe the receptacle itself, not the plug or the device being powered. - It is a standard term in both technical and everyday contexts.

Examples

• Noun:
  • Please plug the lamp into the wall socket.
  • There aren't enough wall sockets in this room for all our equipment.
  • The electrician installed a new double wall socket in the kitchen.

Advanced Usage

• "to be out of wall socket": to have no available electrical outlets.
  • The conference room was out of wall sockets, so we couldn't set up the projector.

Variants and Related Words

• Electrical outlet (n): A more general synonym for "wall socket."
• Power point (n): A common term used in some English-speaking regions (e.g., UK, Australia) equivalent to "wall socket."
• Receptacle (n): A formal or technical term for a device that receives a plug.
• Socket (n): A shorter, more informal form often used interchangeably with "wall socket."

Synonyms

• Outlet: The most common American English synonym.
• Power outlet: Emphasizes the function of providing electrical power.

Related Phrases

• Wall socket adapter (n): A device that allows a plug to fit into a foreign wall socket.
  • You'll need a wall socket adapter for your devices when traveling to Europe.
• Wall socket cover (n): A safety plate or cap placed over an unused socket.
  • Use wall socket covers to childproof the room.

Noun

1. receptacle providing a place in a wiring system where current can be taken to run electrical devices