Checkroom

/ˈtʃɛkˌrum/ noun

Definition

A room or area where you can leave your coat, bag, or other items temporarily and receive a ticket to claim them later, typically found in theaters, restaurants, or hotels.

Etymology

From 'check' (to deposit for safekeeping, from the French practice of marking items) and 'room' (a space). This term became standard in the early 20th century with the rise of public venues.

Kelly Says

Before checkrooms, theaters had major theft problems—people would steal expensive coats and hats from other patrons during intermission, so the checkroom system solved both security and convenience issues simultaneously.

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