doghole

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   derogatory: a mean, cramped, or squalid dwelling or place considered fit only for dogs

   He called the windowless basement room a miserable doghole.

2. 2
   noun

   western US: a small coastal inlet or landing where vessels once loaded timber

   The schooner waited offshore until the doghole port was calm enough to enter.

3. 3
   noun

   a small opening, especially an opening in a mine

   Fresh air entered the old working through a narrow doghole.

From Middle English doghole, a compound of dog + hole. The literal idea of a small opening or a place for a dog produced the contemptuous sense 'miserable dwelling.' On the Pacific coast of North America, doghole later named tiny coves where lumber schooners loaded cargo.

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