Dugout

/ˈdʌɡaʊt/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A shelter or a small structure dug into the ground, often used in sports to denote the area where players wait.
The coach waited for the rain to stop in the dugout with his players.
A trench or hole dug into the ground for protection during military operations.
The soldiers took cover in a dugout during the artillery barrage.
A type of canoe or small boat carved from a single log.
The indigenous people used a dugout for fishing in the river.

Etymology

From the term 'dug out' referring to something that has been excavated.

Common Phrases and Expressions

in the dugout
Refers to players or coaches awaiting their turn in a baseball game.
dugout canoe
A canoe made from a hollowed-out log, typically used in traditional watercraft.

Related Words

bunker
A reinforced underground shelter.
cabin
A small shelter or cottage, often in a rural area.

Slang Meanings

The place where players wait during a game.
He spent the whole game in the dugout since he was not playing.
An area of refuge or safety.
During the trouble, they found a dugout to hide in.