What does stowable mean?
Stowable means able to be packed away or stored conveniently, usually without taking up much space. The word is especially common for equipment that folds, collapses, or can be dismantled, such as stowable tables, tents, bicycles, and carry cases. It emphasizes practical storage rather than simply the possibility of putting something away. In everyday use, “stowable” often suggests that the object has been deliberately designed to fit into a vehicle, cupboard, bag, or other limited space. The related word “stow” describes the action of putting something away, while “stowage” refers to the process or space used for storing something. As a result, stowable is particularly useful in descriptions of portable or space-saving products, where ease of packing and unpacking is important.
adjectiveCapable of being packed away or stored in a compact space. Often used of objects that can be folded, collapsed, or otherwise arranged for storage.
- Able to be stored or packed away, especially in a compact or space-saving form.
"The bicycle has a stowable frame that makes it easier to keep in a small apartment."
"The tent comes with stowable poles and a carrying bag."
"These folding stools are lightweight and easy to carry when stowable."
Stowable describes the difference between an object that merely has a lid and one that can genuinely be packed away.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does stowable come from?
“Stowable” was formed in the 19th century by adding the suffix “-able” to “stow,” meaning to pack away or store. “Stow” comes through Middle English from Old English “stōwan,” ultimately from a Germanic root associated with placing or storing something. The same broad root also underlies related words such as “store,” “storage,” “stowage,” and “stowaway,” although their precise historical development differs.
Related word forms
How stowable is actually used
Usually used attributively before a noun. It is especially common in product descriptions and instructions for folding, collapsible, or removable components.