Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Outlet Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”Œ
Add to dictionary

outlet

[หˆaสŠt.lษ›t ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

electrical device

An outlet is a point in a wall where you can connect electrical devices to the electricity supply.

Synonyms

receptacle, socket.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
outlet

Can also mean a place that sells goods or a means of expressing emotions or ideas.

  • She found a perfect outlet for her creativity in painting.
  • The factory sells its surplus stock through its outlet store.
socket

Commonly used term in British English and in some technical contexts. Refers to where you plug in electrical devices.

  • Plug the microwave into the socket over there.
  • He checked the wall socket to see if it was working.
receptacle

More technical and formal term for an outlet in an electrical context. Often used in technical writing and manuals.

  • Ensure the power cord is securely plugged into the receptacle before turning on the machine.
  • The electrician installed a new receptacle in the kitchen for the oven.

Examples of usage

  • You can plug your phone charger into the outlet.
  • The outlet in the kitchen stopped working.
Context #2 | Noun

store

An outlet is a store that sells goods directly from the manufacturer at a discounted price.

Synonyms

discount store, factory store.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
outlet

A place where products are sold at lower prices, typically because they are overstock or off-season. Can also refer to any location where goods or services are sold.

  • We went to the outlet to find some cheap designer clothes
  • The electronics outlet is having a sale this weekend
factory store

A retail space run directly by the manufacturer, selling products at discounted prices. These are often items with minor defects, discontinued lines, or surplus stock.

  • We found last season's shoes at a factory store for half the price
  • The factory store is a great place to find deals on appliances
discount store

A store that sells products at lower prices, usually because they are offered at a discount compared to regular retail prices. Often these items are less current or in bulk.

  • The discount store had everything we needed for the party
  • They bought groceries from a nearby discount store to save money

Examples of usage

  • I found a great deal at the outlet mall.
  • The outlet store is offering a special promotion.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In electrical systems, outlets provide access for power and are crucial for our daily use of devices.
  • Different regions have various outlet designs and voltages, affecting device compatibility globally.
  • Safety features in outlets, like ground-fault circuit interrupters, help prevent electrical shocks.

Pop Culture

  • The term 'retail outlet' often refers to stores that sell products directly from manufacturers at discounted prices.
  • Outlets are frequently featured in movies as places where characters find deals or discounts.
  • There are notable outlet stores worldwide, including those from well-known brands, attracting shoppers looking for bargains.

Psychology

  • The concept of 'outlet' in psychology can refer to emotional release, like expressing feelings through art or writing.
  • Finding healthy outlets for stressโ€”like exercise or hobbiesโ€”improves well-being and mental health.
  • Individuals often seek various outlets to cope with daily pressures, highlighting the importance of balance.

Literature

  • In literature, 'outlet' can symbolize a character's chance to express themselves or break free from constraints.
  • Authors often use imagery of outlets to show escape or transition in stories, reflecting characters' growth.
  • The metaphor of an outlet appears in poetry, where it represents relief, renewal, or a way to release pent-up emotions.

Origin of 'outlet'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'outlet' comes from the Old English 'ลซt' meaning 'out' and 'leatan' meaning 'to let go'.
  • It has been used since the late 15th century in English to refer to a passage for water or air.
  • In modern usage, it evolved to encompass various settings where things are released or sold.

The word 'outlet' originated in the 13th century, derived from the Middle English word 'utlete', which means 'a stream that flows out of a lake or pond'. Over time, the term evolved to also refer to a point where something is released or discharged. In the 19th century, 'outlet' began to be used in the context of electricity, and later in retail to signify a store selling goods directly from the manufacturer.

See also: out, outback, outer, outing, outside, outward, outwardly, outwards.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,157 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.