'wall socket' definitions:

Definition of 'wall socket'

noun

Receptacle providing a place in a wiring system where current can be taken to run electrical devices [syn: wall socket, wall plug, electric outlet, electrical outlet, outlet, electric receptacle]

Definition of 'wall socket'

From: GCIDE

Socket \Sock"et\, n. [OE. soket, a dim. through OF. fr. L. soccus. See Sock a covering for the foot.]
1. An opening into which anything is fitted; any hollow thing or place which receives and holds something else; as, the sockets of the teeth. [1913 Webster]
His eyeballs in their hollow sockets sink. --Dryden. [1913 Webster]
2. Especially, the hollow tube or place in which a candle is fixed in the candlestick. [1913 Webster]
3. (Electricity) the receptacle of an electric lamp into which a light bulb is inserted, containing contacts to conduct electricity to the bulb. [PJC]
4. (Electricity) the receptacle fixed in a wall and connected by conductive wiring to an electrical supply, containing contacts to conduct electricity, and into which the plug of an electrical device is inserted; -- called also a wall socket or outlet. The socket will typically have two or three contacts; if three, the third is connected to a ground for safety. [PJC]
And in the sockets oily bubbles dance. --Dryden. [1913 Webster]
Socket bolt (Mach.), a bolt that passes through a thimble that is placed between the parts connected by the bolt.
Socket chisel. Same as Framing chisel. See under Framing.
Socket pipe, a pipe with an expansion at one end to receive the end of a connecting pipe.
Socket pole, a pole armed with iron fixed on by means of a socket, and used to propel boats, etc. [U.S.]
Socket wrench, a wrench consisting of a socket at the end of a shank or rod, for turning a nut, bolthead, etc., in a narrow or deep recess. [1913 Webster]