How is a "dedicated circuit" defined in electrical codes?

A dedicated circuit is defined as a circuit that is intended to supply a single piece of equipment or load. This definition is crucial in electrical codes because it ensures that the specific device has a dedicated power supply, allowing it to operate safely and efficiently without being affected by other loads. Such circuits help prevent overload and reduce the risk of tripped breakers or equipment malfunction due to shared power resources. For example, large appliances like refrigerators, air conditioners, or electric dryers are typically connected to dedicated circuits to meet their unique power needs without interference from other devices in the same circuit.