Pronunciation: [wˈɔːl sˈɒkɪt] (IPA) 
The correct spelling of "wall socket" is [wɔːl ˈsɒkɪt]. The first part of the word is pronounced with a long "o" sound, followed by an "l" sound. The second part is pronounced with a short "o" sound, followed by a hard "c" and a short "i" sound, and ends with a "t" sound. The spelling accurately reflects the pronunciation of the word, which refers to an electrical outlet installed in a wall for plugging in devices.
A wall socket is a device designed to deliver electrical power to various appliances by providing a connection point between the electrical wiring of a building and the devices that require electricity. Also known as an electrical outlet or power outlet, this vital component is typically mounted on a wall or recessed into the surface, allowing for easy access to the electrical supply within a room or building.
The wall socket consists of a faceplate, usually made of plastic or metal, with slots or holes for inserting the prongs of a plug. Internally, it is connected to the electrical wiring by live, neutral, and earth wires, which provide the necessary electricity and grounding for the connected devices. The live wire carries the electrical current from the power source to the outlet, while the neutral wire returns the current back to the source. The earth wire is a safety feature that connects the metal parts of an appliance to the ground, protecting users from electric shocks.
Wall sockets can vary in design and specifications depending on the region or country, with different shapes, sizes, and types of electrical plugs. Common types include the two-pronged ungrounded socket and the three-pronged grounded socket, offering varying degrees of safety and compatibility. Additionally, some wall sockets incorporate additional features such as USB ports for charging electronic devices directly without the need for a separate adapter.
Overall, the wall socket serves as a crucial point of access to electrical power, enabling the safe and convenient use of a wide range of electrical appliances and devices.
The word "wall socket" is a compound noun consisting of two parts: "wall" and "socket".
The term "wall" originated from the Old English word "weall", which meant a rampart of earth or stone built for defense. It derives from the Germanic word "wallan", meaning "to wall up" or "enclose". The word was primarily used to refer to a structure or barrier forming a boundary or enclosure.
The word "socket" comes from the Old English word "soccet", which referred to a hollow or concave part able to receive or hold something. It traces back to the Latin word "soccus", which meant a shoe or sock. Over time, "socket" broadened its meaning to indicate a cavity or receptacle for electrical connections or other purposes.
