pigeonhole crossword clue – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "pigeonhole crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of solutions by letter count, along with detailed explanations to help you understand the context and improve your crossword-solving skills.

Solutions for "pigeonhole crossword clue" by Letter Count

4 Letters

SLOT: A narrow opening or a position, often a small compartment, fitting the literal sense of a pigeonhole.

FILE: To categorize and store documents, or a compartment for holding them. Can be literal or figurative.

5 Letters

LABEL: To assign someone or something to a particular class or category, a common figurative meaning of 'pigeonhole'.

6 Letters

DRAWER: A sliding storage compartment, similar in function to a pigeonhole.

7 Letters

SECTION: A distinct part or division of a larger whole, akin to a compartment.

8 Letters

CLASSIFY: To arrange in classes or categories; a common figurative meaning of pigeonhole as in 'to pigeonhole someone'.

9 Letters

CUBBYHOLE: A small, snug compartment, a direct synonym for a physical pigeonhole.

10 Letters

CATEGORIZE: To place into a specific category, reinforcing the figurative meaning of pigeonhole.

11 Letters

COMPARTMENT: A small section or division, often for storage, directly aligning with the primary literal meaning of a pigeonhole.

More About "pigeonhole crossword clue"

"Pigeonhole" is a fascinating word in crosswords because it carries both a literal and a figurative meaning, making it versatile and sometimes tricky for solvers. Literally, a pigeonhole is a small, open compartment, typically one of a series in a desk or cabinet, used for sorting or storing papers or other small items. Think of the slots in an old post office sorting desk or a wine rack. This meaning leads to answers like COMPARTMENT, CUBBYHOLE, or SLOT.

However, the figurative meaning is often where the word truly shines in puzzles. To "pigeonhole" someone or something means to assign them to a particular class or category, often a narrow or restrictive one, without considering their full complexity or individuality. This sense frequently appears in clues relating to stereotyping, classifying, or categorizing. Answers like CLASSIFY, CATEGORIZE, or LABEL stem from this interpretation.

Understanding which meaning the setter intends is crucial. Look for context clues in the rest of the puzzle or the specific phrasing of the clue itself. Does it hint at storage or at an act of judgment or organization? The length of the required answer is also a significant hint, guiding you towards shorter literal terms or longer figurative ones.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'pigeonhole' mean in a crossword context?

In crosswords, 'pigeonhole' can refer to a small compartment (literal) or, more often, to the act of classifying or categorizing someone or something into a narrow group (figurative). Answers can range from physical storage solutions to actions of labeling or stereotyping.

Are there common synonyms for 'pigeonhole' in crosswords?

Yes, common synonyms include 'classify', 'categorize', 'label', 'slot', 'cubbyhole', 'compartment', or 'drawer', depending on whether the clue intends the literal or figurative meaning. The surrounding letters in the grid often help determine the correct synonym.

How can I identify the correct 'pigeonhole' answer?

To identify the correct answer, consider the number of letters required, and whether the clue implies a physical space or an action of classification. Cross-reference with intersecting words to narrow down possibilities. If the clue has a tricky wordplay, think about its double meanings.