Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

pigeon-hole

verb

/ˈpɪdʒ.ən.hoʊl/

Definition

To categorize or classify something, often in a restrictive or simplistic manner.

Examples

He felt pigeon-holed by his job title, which didn’t reflect his full range of skills.
She’s more than just a scientist; don’t pigeon-hole her as just that.

Meaning

The term originates from the practice of placing pigeons in small compartments or ‘holes’. It generally means to assign someone or something to a particular group without considering other possibilities.