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carrel

carrel

3 8.8
A small enclosed study space in a library for one person to work quietly
  • noun
  • /ˈkærəl/
translation icon : cabina de estudio
  • She found a comfortable carrel by the window, where she could study undisturbed for hours.
  • library carrels
  • study carrel

Examples

  • In the 1960s and 1970s, audio tutorials were set up in library study carrels.

    Academic text (2015)
  • You know, I found her name carved into my study carrel.

  • When seated in the carrel, he liked to have his back turned to the class.

    Academic text (1992)
  • Try to get a reserved carrel or table in the law library.

    Blog text (20)
  • Nevertheless, she came to her carrel every day and sat down, opened her books, and began.

    Fiction book (1995)
  • And now, annoyingly enough, there was someone in her carrel, a man with an open book.

    Fiction book (1995)
  • As a last resort, an old-fashioned study carrel will do the job.

    Academic text (2007)
  • One student, Jerry, an average but conscientious worker, was provided a private study carrel.

    Academic text (1992)
  • Electrical outlets were added to 34 study carrels and 5 large study areas.

    Blog text (31)
  • I had spent too many mornings in carrels at the library, writing too little that pleased me.

    Fiction book (1994)

Synonyms

cubicle
vscarrel
88 3.4

A small separated space for one person, often in an office

is limited to study use and emphasises private undisturbed work
carrell
vscarrel
  • US
9.8

A small desk area in a library separated by low walls for privacy

is the same in meaning but is an alternative spelling

How Private

study
201 1.1
carrel
3 8.8
cubicle
88 3.4
reading room
5 2.6

Surface Forms

carrel singular
carrels plural

Etymology

Carrel is easiest to remember if you think of it as a tiny corral, a small 'enclosure' for one person and their books. So a carrel is a quiet, enclosed study space where you can work alone.