电缆，是由两条或更多的导线粘合、扭曲或编织在一起形成的单一的连接两个设备传输电信号的组件。电缆的用途广泛并且每个用途都需特制，它的功能大至传输电能、电信号和实现电磁能转换的线材产品。

电力缆通常由传输电力或电信号的缆芯和起到保护、绝缘作用的护套组成。只含有一条缆芯而且直径较细的电缆通常被称为电线。也有些电线没有绝缘护套，被称为裸线。电缆中的缆芯由导电性能良好的金属材料制成，通常使用铜（导电性能良好）或铝（成本较低）。

1836年世界上制造出第一根铜线外用橡皮带包扎的低电压（600伏特以下）电力用电线。

An electrical cable is made of two or more wires running side by side and bonded, twisted, or braided together to form a single assembly, the ends of which can be connected to two devices, enabling the transfer of electrical signals from one device to the other. Cables are used for a wide range of purposes, and each must be tailored for that purpose. Cables are used extensively in electronic devices for power and signal circuits. Long-distance communication takes place over undersea cables. Power cables are used for bulk transmission of alternating and direct current power, especially using high-voltage cable. Electrical cables are extensively used in building wiring for lighting, power and control circuits permanently installed in buildings. Since all the circuit conductors required can be installed in a cable at one time, installation labor is saved compared to certain other wiring methods.