bolt-hole

American  

[bohlt-hohl] / ˈboʊltˌhoʊl /

noun

1. a hole in the ground, protected opening in bushes, etc., into which an animal can flee when pursued or frightened.

2. a place or avenue of escape or refuge.

   The remote mountain village was a safe bolt-hole for refugees during the war.

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bolt hole British  

noun

1. a place of escape from danger

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Etymology

Origin of bolt-hole

First recorded in 1830–40

Example Sentences

“Reclaimed wood has a lot of old nail holes and bolt-holes that tell a little story,” Conta says.

From Seattle Times

This includes such luxury bolt-holes as the all-inclusive Grand Velas Riviera Maya in Mexico or the Hotel Savoia & Jolanda in Venice.

From Seattle Times

At another foundation a bit north, the greenbelt soils were weak, so Liberty ordered a custom spool-shaped steel adapter, so extra-strength bolts could be fastened through wider bolt-holes.

From Seattle Times

He saw it as a refuge, a bolt-hole in which he could pursue country pleasures and contemplate the beauty of nature; she found it boring and preferred the city.

From New York Times

The capsule is believed to have fallen out of the sensor, through the bolt-hole, onto the surface of the truck and bounced onto the road.

From New York Times