---
title: "What Is Outlet? Electrical Glossary | Daniel Electric"
description: "In everyday talk an outlet is a wall socket. In code, an outlet is any point on the wiring where current is taken to power equipment."
url: https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/outlet
publisher: Daniel Electric
phone: +1-817-481-8606
quote: https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/contact
---

Wiring and circuits

# Outlet

In everyday talk an outlet is a wall socket. In code, an outlet is any point on the wiring where current is taken to power equipment.

OSHA defines an outlet as a point on the wiring system at which current is taken to supply utilization equipment. So a light fixture connection is also an outlet. In daily speech, outlet means the plug socket, which the code calls a [receptacle](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/receptacle).

Outlets that spark, run hot, buzz or show scorch marks need a licensed electrician. Some add features such as [USB ports](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/usb-outlet) or [ground-fault protection](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/gfci). See [electrical warning signs](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/guides/electrical-warning-signs).

[Daniel Electric can helpResidential electrician](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/electrician)

## Related terms

-   [Receptacle](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/receptacle)
-   [USB outlet](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/usb-outlet)
-   [GFCI](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/gfci)
-   [Three-prong outlet](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/three-prong-outlet)

## Sources

1.  [OSHA: 1910.399 Definitions applicable to this subpart](https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910/1910.399)
2.  [OSHA: 1910.399 Definitions applicable to this subpart](https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910/1910.399)

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## Need an electrician in Southlake?

Call and tell us what is going on. A photo of the panel label or the problem helps us come prepared. Quotes on new installations are free.

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