cathole meaning: definition, etymology and quotations

cathole

noun

Etymology From cat + hole.

A small pit, dug in the earth by hikers etc. in order to bury feces.

It is still generally best to deposit feces in catholes, but the slow decomposition rate emphasizes the need to disperse catholes widely and far from water, campsites and other frequently used places.1989, David N. Cole, Low-impact Recreational Practices for Wilderness and Backcountry, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, page 121:

Nautical, Transport Either of two circular holes cut in the stern of a sailing man of war on the level of the capstan, used for the passage of stern hawsers.