Editing AC power plugs and sockets (section)

{{Short description|Connector used to connect to mains power}}
{{About|the usage in domestic and light commercial environments|other types|Industrial and multiphase power plugs and sockets}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=March 2025}}{{Use Oxford spelling|date=March 2025}}
{{Multiple image |style="width:220px" |direction=vertical |image1=Schuko plug and socket.png |image2=French-power-socket.jpg |footer=Plugs and sockets may sometimes combine male and female contacts. Clockwise from top left: CEE&nbsp;7/4 (German) plug; a matching CEE&nbsp;7/3 socket with exposed earth (ground) projections on circumference of socket; CEE&nbsp;7/5 (French) socket with projecting earth pin}}
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'''AC power plugs and sockets''' connect devices to [[mains electricity]] to supply them with [[electrical power]]. A '''plug''' is the connector attached to an electrically operated device, often via a cable. A '''socket''' (also known as a '''receptacle''' or '''outlet''') is fixed in place, often on the internal walls of buildings, and is connected to an [[Alternating current|AC]] electrical circuit. Inserting ("plugging in") the plug into the socket allows the device to draw power from this circuit.

Plugs and wall-mounted sockets for portable appliances became available in the 1880s, to replace connections to light sockets. A proliferation of types were subsequently developed for both convenience and protection from [[electrical injury]]. Electrical plugs and sockets differ from one another in [[voltage]] and [[electric current|current]] rating, shape, size, and connector type. Different standard systems of plugs and sockets are used around the world, and many obsolete socket types are still found in older buildings.

Coordination of technical standards has allowed some types of plug to be used across large regions to facilitate the production and import of electrical appliances and for the convenience of travellers. Some multi-standard sockets allow use of several types of plug. Incompatible sockets and plugs may be used with the help of adaptors, though these may not always provide full safety and performance.