Wires: meaning, definitions and examples

When referring to thin, flexible strands of metal used for conducting electricity or signals, typically in simpler or household contexts.

• The wires behind my computer are tangled
• I need to fix the loose wires in my headphones

Used in contexts where thicker, durable, and sometimes multi-strand wires are involved, often for transmitting electrical power or strong signals.

• I need a longer cable for my internet connection
• The television cable needs replacement

Used mainly in technical or professional contexts to refer to materials or objects that conduct electricity, often in a scientific or engineering setting.

• Copper is a good conductor of electricity
• We need to check the conductors in the electrical circuit

Refers to flexible insulated cable types, often associated with smaller appliances or household devices.

• The lamp cord is too short to reach the socket
• Can you pass me the extension cord?

Used for electrical connections and signals. Common in household electronics, wiring circuits, and similar small-scale applications.

• The electrician fixed the wires in the fuse box.
• You need to connect the red and black wires to complete the circuit.

Typically thicker and stronger than wires, used for larger scale and heavy-duty electrical and communication connections. Common in TV installations, computer networking, and industrial machinery.

• He used an HDMI cable to connect the TV to the DVD player.
• Fiber optic cables are laid under the ocean to connect the internet across countries.

More general term that can refer to electrical power lines, telephone lines, or other types of long-distance transmission lines. Often associated with utility services.

• The storm knocked down several power lines, causing a blackout in the area.
• The phone lines are down, so we can't make any calls right now.

Specifically refers to fiber optics, used in high-speed data transmission. Mostly used in telecommunications and high-speed internet infrastructure.

• Fiber optics allow for faster internet speeds than traditional cables.
• The company upgraded their network to use fiber connections for better performance.