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Definition of pigeonhole - 2 dictionary results

pi⋅geon⋅hole

  [pij-uhn-hohl] noun, verb, -holed, -hol⋅ing.
Use pigeonhole in a Sentence
–noun
1. one of a series of small, open compartments, as in a desk, cabinet, or the like, used for filing or sorting papers, letters, etc.
2. a hole or recess, or one of a series of recesses, for pigeons to nest in.
3. Also called pigeon hole, white hole. Printing. white space created by setting words or lines too far apart.
–verb (used with object)
4. to assign to a definite place or to definite places in some orderly system: to pigeonhole new ideas.
5. to lay aside for use or reference at some later, indefinite time: We must pigeonhole this excellent plan until the time is ripe.
6. to put aside for the present, esp. with the intention of ignoring or forgetting, often indefinitely: to pigeonhole an unwanted invitation.
7. to place in or as if in a pigeonhole or pigeonholes: to pigeonhole papers.
8. to fit or provide with pigeonholes: The desk must be pigeonholed for all my papers.
Origin:
1570–80; pigeon 1 + hole

Synonyms:
4. categorize, catalog. 5. file. 6. postpone, shelve.
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2009.
Cite This Source Link To pigeonhole
pi·geon·hole   (pĭj'ən-hōl')   
n.  

  1. A small compartment or recess, as in a desk, for holding papers; a cubbyhole.

  2. A specific, often oversimplified category.

  3. The small hole or holes in a pigeon loft for nesting.

tr.v.   pi·geon·holed, pi·geon·hol·ing, pi·geon·holes

  1. To place or file in a small compartment or recess.

  2. To classify mentally; categorize.

  3. To put aside and ignore; shelve.

The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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