peephole

[ peep-hohl ]

noun

1. a small hole or opening through which to peep or look, as in a door.

peephole

/ ˈpiːpˌhəʊl /

noun

1. a small aperture, such as one in the door of a flat for observing callers before opening

Word History and Origins

Origin of peephole¹

First recorded in 1675–85; peep ¹ + hole

Example Sentences

He heard a knock on his door, looked out the peephole and saw “at least 20 police officers with guns drawn.”

From New York Times

He then heard a second, "very aggressive knock" but did not see anyone when he looked through the peephole.

From BBC

A few minutes later, Fortson heard a louder knock but didn’t see anyone when he looked through the peephole, Crump said, citing the woman’s account.

From Seattle Times

The door was not equipped with a peephole, so Rehn couldn’t see who was demanding she open up.

From Seattle Times

Lopez’s father discovered the crime scene by unscrewing the peephole to the apartment when he hadn’t heard from his son, police said.

From Seattle Times