cathole

1 9.6

A small hole in the ground where people bury human waste when camping

noun
/ˈkæθhoʊl/

Jargon

: cavidad

When camping in the wilderness, it's important to dig a cathole to responsibly bury human waste.
digging a cathole

Examples

The park ranger showed us how to dig a cathole properly.
When camping in remote areas, it is important to dig a cathole for proper waste disposal.
Each hiker was instructed to use a cathole at least 60 meters from any water source.
The guide demonstrated how to cover a cathole after use to protect the environment.
He dug a cathole behind the campsite.
After using the toilet, hikers should create a cathole that is at least 6 inches deep.
To prevent pollution, always bury solid waste in a cathole at least 200 feet from water sources.

Surface Forms

cathole singular

catholes plural

Morphology

cathole = cat + hole (semi-transparent) = cat + hole

Components 'cat' and 'hole' are literal, but the specialized camping meaning (a small latrine-sized hole for burying human waste) is metaphorical and not immediately predictable for all learners.

Etymology

Cathole is easy to remember: a helpful way is to think of cat + hole, which gives the image of a small, private hole. It means a small hole dug outdoors to 'bury' human waste when camping, so the word points straight to the tiny pit you make to keep the place clean.