Plug vs Receptacle Pin vs Socket

Knowledge Base - FAQ

In FIT tip inspections what is the difference between plug, receptacle, pin and socket?
Plug/receptacle refers to the outer geometry of the connector body. Pin/socket is the inner geometry. In a socket, the termini are recessed in a mating sleeve. On the pin side, the termini "stick out." Not all plugs are the pin side, and not all receptacles are the socket side. The mating sleeve is movable in some cases (particularly ARINC).