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Cupboard Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cupboard

[ˈkʌbərd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

furniture

A cupboard is a piece of furniture with doors and shelves, used for storing dishes, food, or other items. It is typically found in kitchens or dining rooms.

Synonyms

cabinet, closet, pantry.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cupboard

Use 'cupboard' when referring to a piece of furniture with shelves that is typically used for storing dishes, food, or other household items. It's often found in kitchens.

  • She arranged the plates neatly in the cupboard.
  • The biscuits are in the cupboard next to the sink.
cabinet

A 'cabinet' can refer to a piece of furniture with shelves, but often more formal or structured, used in various rooms for storing items. It can also refer to a group of advisors to the president in government contexts.

  • He kept all the documents in the filing cabinet.
  • The medicine is in the bathroom cabinet.
  • The President met with his cabinet to discuss the new policy.
closet

A 'closet' is a small room or a recess with a door, used for storing clothes and other items. It is typically found in bedrooms or hallways.

  • She hung her coat in the closet.
  • The vacuum cleaner is in the hall closet.

Examples of usage

  • The cupboard in the kitchen is full of plates and glasses.
  • She opened the cupboard to grab a snack.
  • I keep my spices organized in the cupboard.
  • The cupboard is built into the wall for extra storage space.
  • There's a hidden compartment in the cupboard.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, cupboards reflect local craftsmanship and design, showcasing artistry in their construction.
  • Cupboards are often central to kitchen design, influencing how families gather and share meals, symbolizing warmth and hospitality.
  • Different styles of cupboards, from rustic to modern, can tell a story about changing tastes and technological advancements in furniture design.

Literature

  • Cupboards have appeared in various stories, such as 'The Chronicles of Narnia,' where a cupboard serves as a magical entrance to another world.
  • In children's literature, the cupboard often symbolizes mystery or adventure, representing a hidden space waiting to be explored.
  • Classic tales sometimes use cupboards to create tension, like a character hiding within or discovering something unexpected inside.

Psychology

  • The organization of space, including cupboards, affects our mood and behavior, as clutter can lead to feelings of stress or chaos.
  • A well-organized cupboard can promote a sense of control and well-being, reflecting how we manage our environment.
  • Psychologists study how personalizing storage spaces, like cupboards, can enhance feelings of belonging and identity.

Pop Culture

  • Cupboards have been featured in numerous movies and TV shows, often representing where secrets or surprises are kept.
  • The concept of a cupboard as a place storing 'memories' has been explored in various artistic expressions, linking to nostalgia.
  • In cooking shows, cupboards are frequently depicted as essential for proper kitchen organization, influencing culinary trends.

Origin of 'cupboard'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Middle English 'cobberd,' which originally meant a board or table intended for holding cups.
  • The structure of a cupboard typically combines shelves and doors, evolving from simple shelving units.
  • Historically, cupboards were used not just for dishes but also for valuable items and food storage.

The word 'cupboard' originated from the Middle English 'cupbo(a)rd', which was derived from the Old English 'cypboard', where 'cyp' meant 'cup' and 'board' referred to a table. Originally, cupboards were used to store cups, hence the name. Over time, the meaning expanded to include storage for various items.

See also: cup, cupcake, cupola.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,430, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.