power cable: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1Technical/Everyday
Quick answer
What does “power cable” mean?
A thick, insulated electrical wire used to transmit electricity from a source (like a generator or outlet) to a device or appliance.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A thick, insulated electrical wire used to transmit electricity from a source (like a generator or outlet) to a device or appliance.
In broader contexts, any cable that carries electrical energy, including high-voltage transmission lines or data/power hybrid cables, but primarily distinguished from data/communication cables.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Term is identical. UK may use 'mains cable' more frequently in everyday contexts for the cable from a wall socket to an appliance. US prefers 'power cord' for lighter-duty applications (e.g., to a lamp).
Connotations
In both varieties, 'power cable' connotes a heavier-duty, potentially dangerous cable carrying significant electrical current.
Frequency
Slightly more common in US technical contexts. In UK domestic contexts, 'mains lead' or 'mains cable' is a frequent alternative.
Grammar
How to Use “power cable” in a Sentence
[verb] + the power cable (e.g., connect, disconnect, run)the power cable + [verb] + (e.g., runs, supplies, carries)[adjective] + power cableVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “power cable” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- We need to power-cable the entire stage for the concert.
American English
- The electricians will power-cable the new construction site tomorrow.
adjective
British English
- The power-cable routing was poorly designed.
American English
- We have a power-cable management issue under the desk.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
In procurement or facilities management: 'We need to order shielded power cables for the new server room.'
Academic
In engineering/physics: 'The experiment was compromised by electromagnetic interference from the adjacent power cable.'
Everyday
At home: 'Can you check if the power cable is firmly plugged into the back of the TV?'
Technical
In electrical installation: 'Ensure the power cable is rated for at least 16 amps and is properly grounded.'
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “power cable”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “power cable”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “power cable”
- Using 'cable' alone when specificity is needed (e.g., 'I need a cable' vs 'I need a power cable').
- Confusing 'power cable' (for electricity) with 'USB cable' (for data/power).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Not exactly. A 'charging cable' (like USB-C) often carries both data and lower-voltage DC power for charging batteries. A 'power cable' typically refers to a cable carrying mains electricity (AC, higher voltage) to power a device directly.
Yes, 'electrical cable' is a valid, slightly more general synonym. However, 'power cable' is more specific to cables carrying electrical power, as opposed to, say, cables for signals or data.
In casual use, they are often interchangeable. Technically, a 'cord' is often lighter, more flexible, and used for lower currents (e.g., lamp cord). A 'cable' can be heavier, more heavily insulated, and may contain multiple wires within an outer sheath.
Thickness (gauge) relates to the amount of electrical current it needs to carry safely. A thicker cable has less electrical resistance, reduces overheating risk, and is used for high-power devices like heaters or large computers.
A thick, insulated electrical wire used to transmit electricity from a source (like a generator or outlet) to a device or appliance.
Power cable is usually technical/everyday in register.
Power cable: in British English it is pronounced /ˈpaʊə ˌkeɪ.bəl/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈpaʊɚ ˌkeɪ.bəl/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Don't trip over the power cable.”
- “It's a tangled mess of power cables.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a cable that has the POWER to make things work. Power + Cable = the cable that brings power to life.
Conceptual Metaphor
A VEIN or ARTERY for electricity (channels vital energy).
Practice
Quiz
In a UK domestic context, which term is a common alternative to 'power cable' for a cable from a wall socket to a kettle?