cabinet
/ˈkæbɪnɪt/
NOUN
1. Storage furniture with enclosed compartments
A piece of furniture, usually with doors, drawers, or shelves, designed to store, organize, or display household items, documents, clothing, or other belongings.
1.1. Household storage and kitchen furniture
Used to describe furniture with enclosed storage spaces, commonly found in kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms, and living areas for keeping household items organized and accessible.
Synonyms
- cupboard
- closet
- armoire
- wardrobe
- dresser
- chest
- bureau
- chiffonier
- hutch
- locker
Examples
- The chef reached for the spices stored neatly in the wooden cabinet.
- She organized her clothes and accessories in a spacious bedroom cabinet.
- The office cabinet stored files and documents, keeping the workspace organized.
Related Words
- drawer
- shelf
- shelving
- storage
- furniture
- compartment
- container
- sideboard
- buffet
- credenza
- console
1.2. Display cabinets and decorative furniture
Used to describe furniture designed to display valuable, decorative, or collectible objects, often featuring glass doors, shelves, and an attractive finish.
Synonyms
- showcase
- vitrine
- bookcase
- breakfront
- china closet
- etagere
- credenza
- display case
Examples
- The antique cabinet showcased a collection of rare books and artifacts.
- The museum displayed its valuable porcelain collection in an elegant glass cabinet.
- A beautifully crafted cabinet stood in the living room, displaying the family's antique collection.
Related Words
- curio
- glass case
- display shelf
- collectibles
- ornaments
- antiques
- porcelain
- sideboard
NOUN
2. Government advisory and executive body
A group of senior officials, ministers, or appointed advisers responsible for assisting a government or organization in making decisions, establishing policies, and overseeing administrative affairs.
2.1. Government ministers and executive administration
Used to describe the senior government ministers who collectively formulate public policies, advise the head of government, and supervise executive departments.
Synonyms
- ministry
- administration
- government
- governing body
- official family
- executive
Examples
- The government cabinet met to discuss important policy decisions and initiatives.
- The president appointed new members to the cabinet following the election.
- The cabinet approved several proposals aimed at improving public services.
Related Words
- prime minister
- president
- minister
- secretary
- department
- bureaucracy
- parliament
- legislation
- policymaking
- governance
2.2. Advisory committees and leadership groups
Used to describe a group of trusted advisers, senior executives, or organizational leaders who provide guidance, discuss strategic matters, and assist in important decision-making.
Synonyms
- committee
- council
- assembly
- brain trust
- advisory board
- board
- counselors
- advisers
Examples
- The company's cabinet of senior advisers reviewed the proposed expansion strategy.
- A small cabinet of trusted counselors helped the director make difficult decisions.
Related Words
- consultants
- administrators
- executives
- department heads
- leadership
- authority
- decision-making
- strategic planning
- governance
NOUN
3. Enclosed compartment or housing structure
A small enclosed space, container, or protective structure designed to accommodate equipment, machinery, electrical components, or other objects.
3.1. Mechanical and electrical equipment enclosures
Used to describe a protective housing or enclosure that contains and protects mechanical, electrical, or electronic components, often forming part of a larger machine or installation.
Synonyms
Examples
- The technician opened the cabinet to inspect the electrical components.
- The arcade game cabinet housed the machine's electronic controls and display.
- The equipment cabinet protected the sensitive machinery from dust and moisture.
Related Words
3.2. Small private rooms and enclosed spaces
Used in less common or historical contexts to describe a small private chamber, enclosed room, or separate compartment within a larger building or structure.
Synonyms
- chamber
- room
- compartment
- booth
- cubicle
- closet
- cubbyhole
- alcove
Examples
- The old building contained a small private cabinet where important documents were kept.
- A secluded cabinet provided a quiet place for private discussions.
Related Words
NOUN
4. Small dwelling or shelter
A small, modest building or enclosed structure used as a simple dwelling or shelter, particularly in older or less common usage.
4.1. Small houses and rustic shelters
Used in an uncommon or historical sense to describe a small house, cottage, or modest shelter that provides basic accommodation.
Synonyms
- cottage
- hut
- cabin
- shack
- bungalow
- hovel
- lodge
- shanty
Examples
- The travelers found shelter in a small cabinet near the edge of the settlement.