Definition temporary electrical connector, named for its resemblance to a crocodile's jaws Reference Wikipedia > Crocodile clip. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crocodile_clip [15.3.2011]
Comment Functioning much like a spring-loaded clothespin, the clip's two tapered, serrated jaws are forced together by a spring to make them grip a metal object. One of the jaws usually has either a wire permanently attached or a 4 mm banana plug inserted into it, for connection to an electrical circuit. The clip may be partly covered by a plastic shroud or "boot" to prevent accidental short-circuits.