Featured Terms
Electrical Slang
What do a "bug" and a "cherry" have in common?
They are both electrical slang terms!
Curious about what these and other slang terms mean?
Scroll through our collection of slang terminology used in the electrical industry!
Whether you are an electrician, contractor, or just someone trying to understand what your local electrician is jabbering about, use the glossary to learn trade slang and electrical jargon.
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7/26/2021
This electrical box is slightly larger than the standard 1900 or 4" box. Called a 5" box because of its 4-11/16" size, it is used for a wide variety of applications where heaver cables are needed or bulky wiring devices require a higher volume box. The part number shown below is only one of many configurations and you need to ask for the size of the knockout (determined by the conduit size) and if the user wants a standard (1-1/2") or a deep (2 1/8") box. This electrical box is usually called a 1900 box because that was the original part number from Bossert almost a hundred years ago. Called a 4" box because of its 4" width, it is the most common box used when a simple switchbox isn't big enough. The part number shown below is only one of many configurations and you need to ask for the size of the knockout (determined by the conduit size) and if the user wants a small (1-1/4"), a standard (1-1/2") or a deep (2 1/8") box. The user also has to specify how it will be mounted: stud ears, etc.
7/26/2021
Termed "double sided tape," this has the sticky stuff on both sides and is used to attach lightweight items that will later be screwed into place. It is more for alignment and ease of final installment than for permanent installation when used in the electrical industry.
7/26/2021
Refers to the insulating covers used for multiple tap connectors, parallel taps, T-taps, etc. The cover snaps over the connection and this quick installation saves the labor involved in the taping and insulating process.
7/26/2021
When EMT is run along the surface of the wall and you want to connect to a wall box, the EMT won't align with the box knockout. This offset connector raises the connector just slightly so it meets with where the box knockout is.
7/26/2021
Aerosol spray used to test the proper operation of both commercial and residential smoke detectors. Eliminates the need to light cigarettes or matches in order to generate smoke.
7/26/2021
You use this anchor when you want to attach a machine screw to concrete, block or brick. Sizes from 6/30 to 3/4".
7/26/2021
Slips over splice, pull-out plastic core, rubber shrinks by 50% to form tight seal.
