What does manhole mean?
A manhole is a covered opening in a street, pavement, or other surface that allows workers to reach underground pipes, sewers, drainage systems, or utility equipment. The word describes the opening or access point itself, while “manhole cover” more specifically names the removable lid or plate placed over it. Manholes are common in urban and industrial infrastructure, where they are opened for inspection, maintenance, and repairs. The word is understood in both British and American English and is especially associated with municipal engineering and street work. Although “man” in the compound originally referred to a person generally, in modern use it can sound old-fashioned or suggest the traditional male-dominated labor associated with such work, without making the term unsuitable for contemporary technical contexts.
nounA covered opening in a road, pavement, or other surface that provides access to underground utilities, sewers, or drainage systems. It is usually large enough for a person to enter.
- A covered opening in a road, pavement, or other surface that provides access to underground utilities, sewers, or drainage systems.
"The workers lifted the manhole cover to inspect the underground pipes."
"The manhole was open while engineers repaired the sewer beneath the street."
"Rainwater disappeared through the grate and into the manhole."
The plural is used when referring to multiple access openings in streets, pavements, or other surfaces.
"Several manholes were temporarily closed while the crews worked below street level."
A manhole is a small portal into the hidden infrastructure beneath a city, usually hidden beneath a simple metal lid.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does manhole come from?
“Manhole” is an English compound formed from “man” and “hole,” both of which are old words. The term emerged during the 19th century for an opening large enough for a person to enter, especially one leading to underground sewers or utility systems. “Hole” continues Old English hol, while “human” and “manhood” reflect the older Germanic root represented by “man.”
How manhole is actually used
The term is standard in British and American English. In British usage, it is especially common in municipal works, street maintenance, and public utilities; in American usage, it is also widely used for access openings in streets and pavements.