Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
pigeon-hole
noun and verb
/ˈpɪdʒ.ən.hoʊl/

Definition
A pigeon-hole is a small compartment or cubby, often used for organizing papers or mail in offices.

Examples
- She placed the letter in the pigeon-hole marked ‘Urgent’.
- It’s easy to pigeon-hole people based on first impressions.

Meaning
The term refers both to a physical space that can hold items and to the action of categorizing or labeling someone or something in a restrictive way.

Synonyms
- compartment
- niche
- categorize
- classify