pigeonhole: Meaning and Definition of

pi•geon•hole

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 calledwhite space created by setting words or lines too far apart.

1. to assign to a definite place or to definite places in some orderly system: to pigeonhole new ideas.
2. to lay aside for use or reference at some later, indefinite time: We must pigeonhole this excellent plan until the time is ripe.
3. to put aside for the present, esp. with the intention of ignoring or forgetting, often indefinitely: to pigeonhole an unwanted invitation.
4. to place in or as if in a pigeonhole or pigeonholes: to pigeonhole papers.
5. to fit or provide with pigeonholes: The desk must be pigeonholed for all my papers.