cupboard

cup-board · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A piece of furniture or a recess with shelves and a door, used for storage.

  2. 2.

    (British) A small room or closet for storage.

Forms

plural: cupboards

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    skeleton in the cupboard — a hidden shameful secret
  • •
    cupboard love — affection motivated by self-interest
  • •
    bare cupboards — having little or no food stored

Related words

See also: cabinet, closet, shelf
Synonyms: cabinet, closet, wardrobe

Etymology

From Middle English, originally "cup board" - a board or table for displaying cups and dishes. The "p" became silent over time.