DictionarybuffetDining-room cabinet
noun

buffet

A cabinet for storing dishes and table linens.

The buffet stores plates and tablecloths.

Etymology

The French source names a sideboard. This furniture sense preserves the cabinet used to hold dishes and other items needed for serving a meal.

More examples

  • She placed a vase on the dining-room buffet.
  • The old buffet had three drawers.
  • They restored the oak buffet before moving it inside.

Forms

buffet · buffets

Similar words

sideboard
The usual furniture equivalent.
hutch
Often includes upper shelves or a cabinet above the lower unit.