WordLens

earth wire

1 of 1noun
/ˈɝθ ˈwaɪɚ/
Forms:earth wires
1

a safety conductor in an electrical system that provides a path for electrical current to flow into the ground, preventing electric shock and protecting against electrical faults

An earth wire, also known as a ground wire, is a safety feature in electrical systems that directs any stray electrical current away from a device or circuit and into the ground. This prevents electric shocks and helps protect both people and equipment from electrical faults. The earth wire is typically color-coded green or green with yellow stripes in many systems. It provides a safe path for electricity to flow if there is a fault, such as a short circuit, preventing potential hazards. The earth wire plays a crucial role in ensuring electrical safety in homes and buildings.

  • Always check that the earth wire is properly attached before using any electrical equipment.
  • The electrician replaced the damaged earth wire to restore the building’s safety system.
  • In homes with older wiring, the earth wire may need to be upgraded to meet current safety standards.
  • If the earth wire is disconnected, the risk of electrical accidents increases significantly.