1. to categorize or classify someone or something in a restrictive or oversimplified way
Usage: often implies unfair limitation
2. to put aside or defer indefinitely; to shelve
Usage: often used for proposals or plans

Examples

• The talented actress was pigeonholed as only suitable for comedy roles.
• He felt pigeonholed by his job title and wanted more diverse responsibilities.
• The committee pigeonholed the proposal until next year’s budget review.
• Don’t let yourself be pigeonholed by other people’s expectations.
• The reform bill was pigeonholed in committee and never reached a vote.
• She refused to be pigeonholed as just a children’s author.
• The innovative project was unfortunately pigeonholed due to budget constraints.