Cubicle Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈkjuːbɪkəl/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A small, enclosed space, typically used as an office or work station, often used in an office setting or modern workspace.

Examples

• The employee spent most of her day stuck in her cubicle without much interaction.
• The new design of the cubicle improved productivity and reduced distractions.
• The company moved to an open-concept office with fewer cubicles to encourage collaboration.
• She often got lost in her thoughts while sitting in her cubicle, staring out the window.
• The company was downsizing and several employees’ cubicles were being eliminated.
• The architect designed a modern office with glass-enclosed cubicles to promote a sense of community.

Synonyms

• Cage
• Booth

Antonyms

• Open Space
• Office Hallway

Etymology

The word “cubicle” comes from the Latin “cubiculum”, meaning “little room”, and has been used in English since the 17th century.

Usage Notes

When referring to office spaces, “cubicle” is often used interchangeably with “workstation”. However, in other contexts, such as hospitals or laboratories, “cubicle” may refer to a single, enclosed space or cell.

Cultural References

The word “cubicle” has appeared in various popular culture references, such as in the TV show “The Office” and in the novel “Fight Club” by Chuck Palahniuk.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Example phrases: “Working in a cubicle all day”, “Trapped in my cubicle”, or “A cubicle of one’s own”.

Related Words or Phrases

Other words related to “cubicle” include “office”, “workstation”, “enclosure”, and “confine”.

Collocations

Common collocations with “cubicle” include “office”, “work”, “computer”, and “desk”.

Frequency of Use

The word “cubicle” is relatively common in modern language, especially in the context of office work and modern workplaces.

Common Misspellings

Common misspellings of “cubicle” include “cubilce”, “cubicul”, and “cubiclee”.