Final answer:
A normally open contact in a relay is open or disconnected when the relay is off, but closes when the relay is energized or turned on.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of relays, a normally open contact refers to a contact that is open or disconnected when the relay is off. This means that no current can flow through the contact when the relay is in its default state. When the relay is energized or turned on, the normally open contact closes, allowing current to flow through. It is worth noting that the terms 'normally open' and 'normally closed' are used to describe the state of the contact when the relay is in its resting or off state.