Meaning & Definition of word "Receptacle"

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    Receptacle

    /rɪˈsɛp.tə.kəl/

    noun:

    • 1. a container or device that receives or holds something.
      • Example: The gardener placed the seeds in a small receptacle before planting them in the ground.
    • 2. a part of a plant that contains seeds, often referred to as a flower's receptacle.
      • Example: The petals of the daisy are attached to a central receptacle that holds the plant's reproductive organs.
    • 3. a socket for receiving a plug or electrical device.
      • Example: She plugged her phone charger into the wall receptacle to charge it.
    • 4. a container for discarded waste, similar to a trash bin.
      • Example: He threw the empty container into the receptacle by the door.

    Etymology

    Late Middle English, from Latin receptaculum 'a receiving place'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    receptacle of knowledge:

    A person or place that holds or contains a lot of information.

    waste receptacle:

    A container specifically designed for waste disposal.

    electrical receptacle:

    A socket for electrical devices.

    Related Words

    container:

    An object that can hold items or substances.

    holder:

    An object that can support or contain something.

    Slang Meanings of receptacle

    Meaning: Trash can.

    Example Sentence: Just throw that in the receptacle.

    Meaning: Socket for plugging in electronics.

    Example Sentence: Where’s the nearest receptacle for my phone charger?