4

What's the difference between receptacle and outlet to cal the device in a wall you put a plug into in order to provide electricity for a lamp, television, etc.?

  • outlet

(also receptacle, socket) (both North American English) (British English power point) a device in a wall that you put a plug into in order to connect electrical equipment to the power supply of a building

OLD

US : a device in a wall into which an electric cord can be plugged in order to provide electricity for a lamp, television, etc.

electrical outlets; a wall outlet

— called also socket, (British) point, (British) power point

MWLD

  • receptacle

US : a device into which an electric cord can be plugged in order to provide electricity for a lamp, television, etc. an electrical receptacle [=outlet]

MWLD

Improve this question
9
  • Please read this en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AC_power_plugs_and_sockets , particularly the "Concepts and terminology" section, and see if it answers your question
    – Max Williams
    Apr 4, 2016 at 13:29
  • Related: Difference between “socket” and “outlet”
    – choster
    Apr 4, 2016 at 13:42
  • @MaxWilliams Thanks Max. It helped some. Sounds like both terms can be used just about interchangeably...
    – Elian
    Apr 4, 2016 at 14:55
  • 1
    The main thing is that "receptacle" is the term used in the National Electrical Code and other "official" documents.
    – Hot Licks
    Apr 4, 2016 at 17:17
  • 1
    @cobaltduck -- All I've ever heard (here in the US Midwest) for the place you put a light bulb is "socket". "Screw the light bulb into the socket."
    – Hot Licks
    Apr 4, 2016 at 20:58

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
2

NEC 2008

Outlet:

A point on the wiring system at which current is taken to supply utilization equipment.

Receptacle:

A receptacle is a contact device installed at the outlet for the connection of an attachment plug. A single receptacle is a single contact device with no other contact device on the same yoke.

–flashcardmachine.com

An outlet is a location. A receptacle is an object.

Improve this answer

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.