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Cubbyhole Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cubbyhole

[ˈkʌbiˌhoʊl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

small space

A small, enclosed space or compartment, typically used for storage.

Synonyms

compartment, pigeonhole, slot.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
compartment

This word is suitable for describing a sectioned-off space within a larger space, commonly used in contexts like trains, storage units, or furniture with multiple sections.

  • She placed her luggage in the upper compartment.
  • The desk has several compartments for storing documents.
pigeonhole

Pigeonhole may refer to a small compartment, often used for storing papers or mail in a desk or cabinet. It is also used figuratively to describe categorizing someone or something in a limiting way, which can carry a negative connotation.

  • She found the letter in her office pigeonhole.
  • I don't want to pigeonhole him as just a musician.
slot

This word is ideal for describing a narrow opening or groove, often used for inserting something, such as coins or letters. It can also refer to a position or time allocation in a schedule or sequence.

  • She inserted the coin into the slot.
  • There is a time slot available at 3 PM.

Examples of usage

  • The mail was sorted into individual cubbyholes for each employee.
  • She kept her personal belongings in a cubbyhole at the gym.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Architecture & Design

  • Cubbyholes are often designed into children's furniture, encouraging tidiness and independence.
  • In modern homes, cubbyholes serve both functional and aesthetic purposes, allowing for creative storage solutions.
  • Professional organizers frequently recommend cubbyholes for decluttering spaces, enhancing efficiency and organization.

Psychology

  • Having organized spaces like cubbyholes can reduce anxiety and stress by promoting a sense of control.
  • Studies suggest that children are more likely to engage in play in organized spaces, enhancing their creativity.
  • The concept of cubbyholes relates to the psychological need for structure, helping individuals feel grounded.

Pop Culture

  • In television shows, characters often have cubbyholes to showcase their personality through objects they choose to display.
  • Cubbyholes have appeared in children's TV programs as magical spaces, creating excitement around organization and discovery.
  • The term has been referenced in various children's books, promoting the idea of keeping spaces tidy and neat.

Education

  • In classrooms, cubbyholes help keep students' materials organized, fostering responsibility and ownership over their belongings.
  • Teachers often use cubbyholes to create a structured environment, aiding in student focus and productivity.
  • Learning about organizational skills and the importance of personal space can start as early as preschool, often incorporating cubbyhole concepts.

Origin of 'cubbyhole'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'cubbyhole' combines 'cubby', meaning small or cozy, and 'hole', referring to a space or cavity.
  • It has roots in Middle English from the word 'cubbe', which means a small or young animal, emphasizing compactness.
  • The word has been in use since the early 19th century, reflecting a growing emphasis on organization in households.

The word 'cubbyhole' originated in the early 19th century, combining 'cubby' (a small, snug room) with 'hole'. It was initially used to refer to a small room or compartment in a ship, later evolving to its current meaning of a small enclosed space for storage.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,116, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.