Extension cord

nounStandard termElectricians

A flexible length of electrical cable with a plug on one end and one or more receptacles on the other.

An extension cord provides temporary power to tools and equipment located far from a permanent wall outlet. On jobsites, these are typically heavy-duty, heavily insulated cables designed to withstand physical abuse, moisture, and extreme temperatures. Using cords with an inadequate wire gauge for high-draw tools causes voltage drop, which can overheat the cord and burn out the tool's motor.

Heard on the job

Grab a fifty-foot extension cord from the truck so we can run the hammer drill out by the driveway.

Also heard as

  • extension lead
  • drop cord