Abstract: A fluorescent lamp socket disclosed is designed for use in environments subject to substantial vibration or shock. A fluorescent lamp is supported by its ferrule or end cap to firmly couple the lamp to the socket. The socket is provided with a retainer element for ready insertion or removal of the lamp. While the lamp is being inserted into the socket, the retainer element engages an edge of the lamp ferrule which impinges on a camming surface of the retainer element and forces the retainer element into a cavity of the socket body. At the same time, contact pins of the lamp are received in slots formed in the socket body having contacts disposed therein. The lamp contact pins cause the contacts to bow, thereby forming a reliable pressure contact between them. As the lamp ferrule continues to be inserted, the lamp ferrule will pass beyond the retainer element and the retainer element will be freed to be urged by a spring toward an extended position.