ash hole

Noun

ash-hole (plural ash-holes)

1. A hole beneath a fireplace or a receptacle in a furnace to receive falling ash.
   • The lower part of the furnace designed for receiving the ashes, and giving passage to the air, is called the Ash-hole. The ash-hole is terminated above the Grate, the use of which is to support the coals and wood, which are to be burnt thereon: this part is called the Fire-place.1764, Pierre Joseph MacQuer, translated by Andrew Reid, Elements of the Theory and Practice of Chymistry, volume 1, page 180
2. (archaic) A hole or other space into which ashes and other waste are disposed.
   • § 19. All ash-holes or ash-houses within the said city shall be built of stone or brick, without the use of wood in any part thereof.1859, A Compilation of the Laws of the State of New York, page 57