Cubicle - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

office space

A small partitioned-off area of a room, especially one containing a desk.

Synonyms

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
cubicle	A small, enclosed workspace often found in offices, usually designed for one person to work in a semi-private area. She decorated her cubicle with photos and plants to make it feel more comfortable. I will get back to you once I return to my cubicle.
compartment	A divided section within a larger space, used for organizing items or providing separate areas for different functions. Common in vehicles, luggage, or storage furniture. Please store your belongings in the overhead compartment during the flight. The desk has several compartments to help keep things organized.
booth	A small, enclosed space, often temporary, used for specific activities such as voting, dining, or vendor sales. Also seen in restaurants as a seating area. We reserved a booth at the restaurant for our dinner meeting. Please fill out your ballot in the voting booth.
bay	An open, often larger area within an office or other structure, shared by multiple people or for specific purposes such as equipment storage or team collaboration. The engineering team has their own bay where they can work on projects together. Please place the equipment in the storage bay when you're finished using it.

Examples of usage

He works in a cubicle in the open-plan office.
The new employee was assigned a cubicle near the window.

Interesting Facts

Architecture

Cubicles are often designed for efficiency and organization, aiming to maximize space in workplaces.
The invention of cubicles is credited to designer Robert Propst, aiming to create a flexible working environment.
Many modern offices utilize open-plan designs that incorporate cubicles to foster collaboration among employees.

Psychology

Studies have shown that cubicles can impact productivity and morale, providing both personal space and feelings of isolation.
Lack of privacy in cubicles may lead to decreased concentration, as noise and visual distractions can disrupt work.
Personalizing a cubicle space can enhance employee satisfaction and comfort in their work environment.

Pop Culture

Cubicles are often depicted in movies and TV shows as symbols of the mundane office life, such as in 'The Office.'
They have become cultural references for the 9-to-5 work routine, often highlighting the monotony of corporate jobs.
In graphic novels like 'Dilbert,' cubicles represent the humor and challenges of everyday office work.

Technology

The rise of remote work and digital communication is challenging the traditional cubicle concept, as many now work from home.
Innovative technologies, like virtual reality, are changing how employees can interact with office environments, even remotely.
Adjustable cubicles with built-in technology, like charging stations, are becoming more common to accommodate modern working needs.

Origin of 'cubicle'

Main points about word origin

The word 'cubicle' comes from the Latin word 'cubiculum,' meaning a 'small room or bedroom.'
It became widely used in English around the 1960s when office designs began to change.
Originally, a cubicle referred to an enclosed space, but today it represents open-plan office layouts divided by partitions.

The word 'cubicle' originates from the Latin 'cubiculum', meaning a small room. In the late 19th century, it was used to refer to small sleeping compartments on trains. Over time, the term evolved to describe small partitioned workspaces in offices, as we commonly know it today.

See also: cub, cube, cubed, cubic, cubical, cuboid.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,568, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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22565 entreaty
22566 obediently
22567 stoker
22568 cubicle
22569 languishing
22570 sprayer
22571 confidentially
...

Cubicle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations