Maadatud

Maadatud is a Finnish word that translates to "grounded" or "earthed" in English. In electrical contexts, it refers to the practice of connecting an electrical circuit or appliance to the earth. This connection provides a safety path for electricity to flow away in case of a fault, such as a wire becoming loose and touching the metal casing of an appliance. Without proper grounding, this fault current could cause an electric shock if someone touches the appliance.

The term "maadatud" is commonly used in discussions about electrical safety regulations and appliance design in Finland and other Nordic countries. It signifies that a particular electrical system or device adheres to these safety standards. The grounding conductor, often a green or green-and-yellow wire, is the physical link that establishes the maadatud connection.

Beyond its literal electrical meaning, "maadatud" can also be used metaphorically in Finnish to describe a person who is sensible, practical, and not prone to flights of fancy. This figurative usage draws a parallel between the stability and reliability of an earthed electrical system and a person's grounded personality. It suggests a person who is well-balanced and in touch with reality.