plural sockets
1
a
: a device in a wall into which an electric cord can be plugged : outlet
She plugged the lamp into the socket.
b
: an opening on a piece of electrical equipment into which a plug, light bulb, etc., fits
He screwed the light bulb into the socket.
2
: a hollow part in a bone that holds an eye, a tooth, or another bone
an inflamed tooth socket
the hip socket
His shoulder popped out of its socket.
Cite this Entry
“Socket.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/socket. Accessed 22 Jun. 2026.
Copy Citation
