[ri-sep-tuh-kuh
l] 
| 1. | a container, device, etc., that receives or holds something: a receptacle for trash. |
| 2. | Botany. the modified or expanded portion of the stem or axis that bears the organs of a single flower or the florets of a flower head. |
| 3. | Electricity. a contact device installed at an outlet for the connection of a portable lamp, appliance, or other electric device by means of a plug and flexible cord. |
| re·cep·ta·cle (rĭ-sěp'tə-kəl) n.
[Middle English, from Old French, from Latin receptāculum, from receptāre, to receive again, frequentative of recipere, to receive; see receive.] |
| receptacle (rĭ-sěp'tə-kəl) Pronunciation Key
The enlarged upper end of a flower stalk that bears the flower or group of flowers. The fleshy edible part of an apple is actually a modified receptacle. See more at flower. |