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Why is an electrical outlet called an outlet when you plug things into it? Shouldn't it be called an inlet?
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The outlet is where the electric coming put that is why it is called outlet.

5 Answers

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Current flow out from the wall socket when you plug a cord into it. If you want this to be called an inlet and not an outlet, then it would need to be reversed. When you plugged the cord into the socket the current should flow into the outlet and not the other way around. Anytime something leaves the space it resides in it becomes a source and an outlet. Electricity is housed in the outlet and the only way to get it to flow is by a conductor such as your plug that trips the circuit and allows the electricity to flow freely. 
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Because the term "outlet" has been used in relation to electrical circuits and wiring for a long time, it is called an outlet rather than an inlet. It is a well-established phrase in the field that both consumers and electricians are familiar with and understand.

In addition, it is important to keep in mind that the idea of electricity moving "in" or "out" of a circuit can be a little perplexing because the movement of electrical current is actually a little more complicated than just moving in one direction. Yet, in the field of electrical engineering, the term "outlet" has grown to be generally accepted and utilized, and it seems unlikely that this will change anytime soon.
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I think the reason why it is called outlet because when you plug in the power cord to the outlet the electrical outlet will give power to the device or appliances. Just like a water outlet which water may come out to the hole. The synonyms are socket, power bar, receptacle, power source or power outlet.
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An electrical outlet is called an outlet because it is a point where electricity flows out from a source, such as a wall socket or generator. An inlet would be a point where electricity flows in to a source, such as a light switch.
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The outlet is not called an inlet because it should not be. An outlet is called a outlet because it is an option for connecting things to an outlet. It is also the name of the type of outlet used in households.
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The term "outlet" refers to the point where electricity flows out from a power source to power a device or appliance. Similarly, an inlet typically refers to where something enters. In the context of electricity, the outlet is where the power exits the source and enters the device, hence the term "outlet."
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