Cabinet

Definition

Cabinet refers to (1) a piece of furniture with shelves or drawers used for storing items, or (2) a group of senior officials, typically appointed by a government head, who serve as the principal advisors and decision-makers in a government. In politics, a cabinet is a body of high-ranking state officials, often representing the executive branch of government.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkæbɪnɪt/
• Respelling: KAB-in-it

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkæbɪnɪt/
• Respelling: KAB-in-it

Etymology

The word "cabinet" comes from the French word "cabinet," which originally meant a small room or a private office. It is a diminutive form of "cabine," meaning a small cabin or shelter. The term evolved in the 16th century to describe both a storage unit and a group of advisors to a sovereign or leader.

Derivatives

• Cabinetry (noun)
• Cabinetmaker (noun)
• Cabinetmaking (noun)
• Cabin (noun)
• Cabinetwork (noun)

Synonyms

• Council (for political meaning)
• Cupboard (for furniture meaning)
• Closet (for furniture meaning)

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "cabinet" is used in two main contexts: furniture and government. In furniture, it refers to an enclosed structure for storing things, such as "The kitchen cabinet holds all the dishes." In government, it refers to a group of advisors or ministers, as in "The prime minister met with the cabinet to discuss new policies." The term can also refer to a collection of objects, such as a "curiosity cabinet," which displays items of interest.

Related Terms

• Ministry: A department of government, often headed by a minister who is part of the cabinet.
• Executive branch: The part of government responsible for implementing laws and policies.
• Council of ministers: Another term used in some countries to describe the body of senior government officials or ministers.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A piece of furniture used for storage: Refers to a unit with drawers or shelves used to store various items.
  • Example: "The cabinet in the living room is filled with books and trinkets."
• A group of senior officials in government: Refers to a body of ministers or high-ranking officials who advise the head of government and make decisions on key policies.
  • Example: "The president's cabinet met to discuss the economic crisis."