A small, enclosed space or compartment used for storing things or hiding, often found in furniture or buildings.
From cubby (small enclosed space, possibly from 'cube' or dialectal 'cub' meaning shelter) + hole (an opening or hollow space). This is a compound word that became popular in the 19th century for describing small, cozy storage spaces.
Cubbyholes became especially famous in British literature and daily life—think of all the hidden compartments in old desks and furniture! The word captures something very human: our love of small secret spaces for treasures.
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