Kitchenette: meaning, definitions and examples

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kitchenette

 

[ˌkɪtʃɪˈnɛt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

small apartment

A kitchenette is a small cooking area, which usually has a sink and a stove, but may not have a refrigerator or oven. It is commonly found in hotel rooms, studio apartments, or small office spaces.

Synonyms

compact kitchen, cooking area, mini kitchen.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
kitchenette

Often used to describe a small kitchen in a studio apartment, hotel room, or office. It generally has essential appliances but limited space.

  • The hotel room includes a kitchenette, so you can prepare simple meals.
  • The studio apartment's kitchenette comes with a microwave and a small fridge.
mini kitchen

Refers to a small, often temporary kitchen setup. This term may be used in contexts like dorm rooms, motorhomes, or event spaces.

  • The dorm room is equipped with a mini kitchen for basic meals.
  • Our RV features a mini kitchen with a stovetop and mini-fridge.
cooking area

Describes any part of a room or outdoor space designated for cooking. Less specific than 'kitchen' and can refer to a section within larger spaces.

  • The cooking area at the campsite includes a grill and a prep table.
  • In the open-plan loft, the cooking area is separated by an island counter.
compact kitchen

Refers to a small but well-organized kitchen that maximizes space, typically found in tiny homes or efficient modern apartments.

  • The compact kitchen in the tiny house has surprisingly ample storage.
  • A compact kitchen can be both functional and stylish.

Examples of usage

  • The hotel room came equipped with a kitchenette, allowing us to prepare simple meals during our stay.
  • She lives in a studio apartment with a tiny kitchenette for cooking.
  • In the small office space, there was a kitchenette where employees could make coffee and heat up meals.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • Originally, the term comes from 'kitchen', which means a place to cook, with the suffix '-ette' suggesting a smaller version.
  • The word entered the English language in the early 20th century, reflecting the rise of small living spaces.

Cultural Insights

  • In many studio apartments, a kitchenette provides a functional cooking space without taking up too much room, making it perfect for city living.
  • You often find kitchenettes in hotels or guest homes, allowing travelers the convenience of cooking simple meals.

Design and Architecture

  • Kitchenettes are commonly designed with multi-functional furniture to maximize very limited spaces.
  • Innovation in compact appliances has led to more efficient kitchenettes, allowing modern features in small areas.

Psychology

  • Having a space to cook in, no matter how small, can promote feelings of independence and self-sufficiency.
  • A well-organized kitchenette can significantly affect a person's mood and motivation to cook.

Literature

  • Kitchenettes often appear in modern literature, symbolizing the hustle and bustle of urban life and the need for adaptability.
  • Many characters in short stories live in tiny apartments with kitchenettes, reflecting their struggles or independence in navigating life.

Translations

Translations of the word "kitchenette" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mini cozinha

🇮🇳 किचनट

🇩🇪 Küchenzeile

🇮🇩 dapur kecil

🇺🇦 куточок для приготування їжі

🇵🇱 aneks kuchenny

🇯🇵 キッチネット

🇫🇷 kitchenette

🇪🇸 cocina pequeña

🇹🇷 mini mutfak

🇰🇷 간이 주방

🇸🇦 مطبخ صغير

🇨🇿 kuchyňka

🇸🇰 kuchynka

🇨🇳 小厨房

🇸🇮 kuhinjska niša

🇮🇸 eldhús

🇰🇿 кіші ас үй

🇬🇪 მინი სამზარეულო

🇦🇿 kiçik mətbəx

🇲🇽 cocina pequeña

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,520 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.