double-book

[ duhb-uhl-book ]

verb (used with object)

1. to overbook by accepting more than one reservation for the same hotel room, airplane seat, etc.
2. to make reservations for (more than one hotel accommodation, seat on a plane, etc.) so as to be certain of obtaining at least one of them.

verb (used without object)

1. to make double reservations for passenger space, a hotel room, etc.

Word History and Origins

Origin of double-book¹

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

"There is school work, appointments, shopping… all constantly demanding our attention. We used to double-book ourselves, waiting to get back home to look at a calendar, or shopping list on the fridge."

From BBC

It’d add a fun little frisson to the Olympic 3x3 matches if the IOC were to deliberately double-book the 3x3 games with, say, badminton.

From Slate

Facing holiday flight delays on a return trip from Europe, parents double-book incompatible babysitters to look after their two kids and dog.

From Los Angeles Times

Facing holiday flight delays on a return trip from Europe, parents double-book incompatible babysitters to look after their two kids and dog.

From Los Angeles Times

He said he’ll only be able to use every other chair and isn’t allowed to double-book appointments.

From Washington Times