This is the 25th most frequent Polish word.
pod
"Pod" in Polish means "under" or "beneath."
"pod" is used here as a preposition to indicate the spatial relationship of the cat being beneath or under the table.
Kot schował się pod stołem.
The cat hid under the table.
"pod" is used in this phrase metaphorically to denote proximity and readiness, a Polish idiom.
Płaszcz jest pod ręką, jakby padało.
The coat is within reach in case it rains.
"pod" is used here to indicate time nearing the end of the day, expressing a temporal relationship.