porter's lodge

B2Modern Institutions

(common, UK, Canada)A room near the entrance of a college or university used for mail and other services.

Example

• Students collect their packages from the porter's lodge.

C1Historical

(historical)A building near the gate of a castle or institution, historically used to punish staff.

B1General

(common)A room or building near the entrance where a gatekeeper or porter is stationed.

Example

• The porter's lodge is the first point of contact for visitors.