Definition

A piece of furniture with shelves and doors used for storing dishes, food, or other items.

Example

She put the dishes back in the cupboard after washing them.

Conversation

Have you seen my favorite mug? I left it in the cupboard yesterday.

I think I saw it there this morning, actually.

Great! I need it for my coffee later.

Just check the cupboard above the sink; it should be there.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cupboard is formed from "cup" (from Old French *coupe*, meaning a vessel or container) and "board" (from Old English *bord*, meaning a flat surface or table). The word originally referred to a board or shelf for holding cups or dishes.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'vessel' ('cup') placed on a 'flat surface' ('board') — that's how you remember that a cupboard is a place for storing dishes or cups.

Visually Confused Words