cabinet [M16th] The modern meaning of ‘a piece of furniture’ developed from the original sense ‘little cabin’ or ‘small room’, particularly one devoted to displaying works of art and similar things. The use for the body of chief ministers who meet to discuss government policy dates from the 17th century. Confidential advisers of the monarch or chief ministers used to hold their meetings in a private room, and in time the term for the room was applied to the politicians themselves. Compare board.