# socket

/ˈsɑkət/ (US) · /sˈɒkɪt/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/socket
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. electrical outlet

noun · CEFR B1

the place on a wall where you plug in electrical equipment.

For teachers: a device or opening into which an electric plug can be inserted to make a connection.

- He plugged the vacuum cleaner into the wall socket in the hallway.
- The contractor installed several additional sockets in the home office to accommodate the client's extensive computer equipment and peripherals.

### 2. anatomical cavity

noun · CEFR B2

a hollow space in the body that holds a part, like an eye or a bone.

For teachers: a natural hollow or cavity in the body into which another part, such as a bone or an organ, fits.

- The skull has two large sockets that hold the eyes in place.
- The surgeon carefully examined the hip socket to determine if the joint replacement was properly aligned with the pelvic bone.

### 3. network endpoint

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a connection point for sending and receiving data over a computer network.

For teachers: one endpoint of a two-way communication link between two programs running on a network.

- The software failed to connect because the server socket was already in use.
- The application establishes a secure socket to ensure that all data transmitted between the client and the server remains encrypted.

### 4. mechanical fitting

noun · CEFR B2

a hollow part of a tool or machine that another part fits into.

For teachers: a hollow part or piece of a mechanism into which a corresponding part is inserted or revolves.

- You need a different size socket for the wrench to loosen this bolt.
- The lightbulb was stuck in the socket because the metal had corroded over several years of exposure to moisture.

### 5. to fit into a hole

verb · CEFR C2 · Formal · Technical

to place or fit something into a socket.

For teachers: to place, fit, or secure an object within a corresponding hollow or receptacle.

- The technician carefully socketed the new processor into the motherboard.
- The structural components are designed to be socketed together, providing a rigid frame without the need for external fasteners.

## Examples

- I need to find a wall socket to charge my phone.
- The electrician installed a new power socket behind the desk to make it easier to connect the computer.
- The surgeon carefully examined the hip socket to determine if the bone had been displaced during the accident, as any misalignment could lead to chronic pain.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.