noun
cubby
kuh-bee
Cubby (noun) means a small, enclosed space just big enough to tuck something into. Example: “He built a reading cubby under the stairs.”
noun
1
A small, enclosed space just big enough to tuck something into.
"He built a reading cubby under the stairs."
"The dog curled up in its cozy cubby."
2
A small compartment on a shelf or rack used to store personal items, often in a classroom.
"Each kindergartner has a cubby for their coat and lunchbox."
How to use cubby
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA little storage nook or slot, especially for kids' belongings at school.
Common pairings
school cubby
storage cubby
cozy cubby
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like cubby.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- cubbies
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He built a reading _____ under the stairs.
Etymology
From Middle English "cub" (a stall or pen) plus the diminutive ending "-y."
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for cubby
See all rhymes for cubby →Frequently asked questions
What does “cubby” mean?
The word “cubby” means a small, enclosed space just big enough to tuck something into. In plain terms, a little storage nook or slot, especially for kids' belongings at school.
How do you pronounce “cubby”?
“Cubby” is pronounced kuh-bee (/kʌbi/ in IPA).
How do you use “cubby” in a sentence?
Here is “cubby” used in a sentence: “He built a reading cubby under the stairs.”
What part of speech is “cubby”?
“Cubby” is a noun.
Where does the word “cubby” come from?
The word “cubby” comes from Middle English. From Middle English "cub" (a stall or pen) plus the diminutive ending "-y.".
How many meanings does “cubby” have?
“Cubby” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a small, enclosed space just big enough to tuck something into.