wellhole

noun

1

: the hole, pit, or shaft of a well

2

a

: the open space in a floor or through a series of floors for the accommodation of a staircase

b

: the open space about which the stairs of a winding or circular staircase turn

3

: a cavity for movement of a counterbalance or similar mechanical device

Word History

First Known Use

1663, in the meaning defined at sense 2a

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