crawlspace

American  

[krawl-speys] / ˈkrɔlˌspeɪs /

Or crawl space

noun

1. (in a building) an area accessible by crawling, crawl, having a clearance less than human height, for access to plumbing or wiring, storage, etc.

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Etymology

Origin of crawlspace

First recorded in 1950–55; crawl ¹ + space

Example Sentences

Residents with a crawlspace should also secure the openings, since it is an easy entry route for bears, which can cause severe damage to a home.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 13, 2026

The woman’s daughter, unnamed by officials, had called for help after being unable to find her mother in the crawlspace under the house.

From Washington Times • Nov. 28, 2023

The woman’s daughter searched for her in the crawlspace under the house and couldn’t find her, according to a police report.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 27, 2023

The discovery came as he was on his hands and knees rummaging through a crawlspace in his father-in-law's home in the Pico-Union neighbourhood of LA.

From BBC • Jun. 9, 2023

Then I enter the crawlspace deep inside me and shut the hatch.

From "I'll Give You the Sun" by Jandy Nelson