extension cord
B1Neutral to Informal
Definition
Meaning
A flexible electrical cable with a plug on one end and one or more sockets on the other, used to temporarily extend the reach of a power source.
Any additional length of cable or flexible conduit added to provide reach or connectivity; figuratively, any means of extending the effective range or scope of something.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Refers specifically to the portable, flexible cable assembly for power. The term focuses on its function (extending reach) rather than its form. 'Cable' or 'lead' may be used in similar contexts, but 'extension cord' is the standard compound for this domestic/office item.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In British English, 'extension lead' is a common, near-synonymous term. 'Mains lead' or simply 'extension' may also be heard. 'Extension cord' is understood but less frequent than in American English.
Connotations
No significant connotative differences. Both terms are purely functional.
Frequency
'Extension cord' is the dominant term in AmE. In BrE, 'extension lead' is equally or more common, but 'extension cord' is perfectly acceptable and understood.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
VERB + extension cord: use/plug in/unplug/run/coil + extension cordADJECTIVE + extension cord: long/short/outdoor/industrial/heavy-duty + extension cordPREPOSITION + extension cord: with an extension cord, over an extension cord (trip)Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms for this specific term]”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rare in formal business contexts, but used in office management or facilities discussions (e.g., 'We need more extension cords for the new workstations.').
Academic
Very rare, except perhaps in technical writing about electrical safety or product design.
Everyday
The primary context. Used in domestic, DIY, gardening, and temporary event settings (e.g., 'Can you pass me the extension cord for the hedge trimmer?').
Technical
Used in electrician/contractor parlance, often with specifications (e.g., 'Use a 12-gauge outdoor-rated extension cord for that saw.').
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- We need to extension-lead the projector to the far socket.
- (Note: Extremely rare/non-standard use as a verb)
American English
- Can you extension-cord the lamp over here? (Informal/jargon)
- (Note: Extremely rare/non-standard use as a verb)
adverb
British English
- (No standard adverbial form)
American English
- (No standard adverbial form)
adjective
British English
- He bought an extension-cord reel for easy storage.
- (Note: Typically used in compound modifier form)
American English
- Make sure it's an extension-cord safety rating for outdoors.
- (Note: Typically used in compound modifier form)
Examples
By CEFR Level
- I need an extension cord for the lamp.
- The extension cord is too short.
- Can you plug the fan into the extension cord? It won't reach the wall.
- We used a long extension cord for the garden lights.
- For safety, never run an extension cord under a rug where it can overheat.
- The technician recommended a heavy-duty extension cord for the power tools.
- A plethora of extension cords snaked across the conference floor, creating a significant tripping hazard.
- Regulations stipulate that temporary extension cords must not be used as a substitute for permanent wiring.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a CORD that provides an EXTENSION of your reach, like a long arm for electricity.
Conceptual Metaphor
AN EXTENSION OF REACH (The cord is metaphorically an elongated arm or limb that allows power to travel further.)
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid literal translation like '*удлинительный шнур*'. The standard Russian term is 'удлинитель' or 'сетевой удлинитель'.
- Do not confuse with 'переноска' (a colloquial term for an extension cord, but literally 'something portable').
- The word 'cord' here is not 'верёвка' (rope), but specifically an insulated electrical cable.
Common Mistakes
- Misspelling as 'extention cord'. Correct spelling: EXTENSION.
- Using 'wire' instead of 'cord' (a 'wire' is a single conductor; a 'cord' is the assembled cable).
- Confusing with 'power strip'/'multiplug' (which has multiple sockets but is not necessarily long).
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is a key safety concern associated with using an extension cord?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
An extension cord is primarily a length of cable with (usually) one socket at the end to extend reach. A power strip (or 'multi-socket adapter'/'extension block') is a short device with multiple sockets, designed primarily to increase the number of outlets, not necessarily to extend reach over a long distance, though some models incorporate a cord.
No, it is generally not recommended and can violate safety codes. 'Daisy-chaining' cords can cause voltage drop, overheating, and fire hazard due to overloading. Use a single cord of the appropriate length and rating instead.
Gauge refers to the thickness of the wire inside the cord. A lower number means a thicker wire (e.g., 12-gauge is thicker than 16-gauge). Thicker cords (lower gauge) can carry more current over longer distances safely and are needed for high-power tools or appliances.
No. Only use extension cords specifically rated for 'outdoor use' or 'all-weather'. These have thicker, waterproof insulation (often bright orange or yellow) and are designed to withstand moisture, sunlight, and temperature changes.