Cabinet terminology glossary
Glossary of commonly used cabinetry terms
Understanding cabinet-related terms is essential when planning your kitchen or bathroom renovation. To help you navigate the world of cabinetry with confidence, we’ve compiled this comprehensive glossary of key terms. Whether you're discussing design options, materials, or construction features, this guide ensures you're informed every step of the way. At Willow Oak Cabinetry & Design, we're here to simplify your journey and ensure you make the best decisions for your home.
Beaded Panel
A decorative panel with vertical grooves (or beads) that add texture and visual interest. This style is popular in farmhouse and cottage-inspired designs.
C
Cabinet Box
The main structure of a cabinet, excluding the doors, drawers, and hardware. High-quality cabinet boxes are often made of plywood for durability. Read our Cabinet Care and Maintenance Guide to learn how to maintain your cabinets.
Concealed Hinge
A hinge that is hidden from view when the cabinet door is closed, offering a clean and seamless look. This feature is common in modern cabinetry.
D
Dovetail Joint
An interlocking joint used in drawer construction that enhances strength and durability. Dovetail joints are a hallmark of high-quality craftsmanship.
Drawer Glide
The mechanism that allows drawers to open and close smoothly. Options include side-mount, bottom-mount, and soft-close glides. Soft-close features are particularly popular for families with young children.
E
Edge Banding
A thin strip of material applied to the edges of cabinet panels to cover exposed surfaces. It provides a polished finish and prevents damage.
End Panel
The visible side of a cabinet that faces outward, often finished to match the rest of the cabinetry. Decorative end panels can enhance the overall design.
Laminate
A durable and budget-friendly material used for cabinet surfaces. Laminate is available in a wide range of colors and patterns, making it a versatile choice.
M
MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard)
An engineered wood product used in cabinet construction. MDF is smooth and cost-effective.
Mullion
A decorative grid on cabinet doors that gives the appearance of divided panes, often used with glass inserts.
O
Overlay
The amount of cabinet door that overlaps the cabinet frame. Full-overlay doors cover the frame entirely, while partial-overlay doors reveal part of it.
P
Pull-Out Shelves
Shelves that slide out for easy access to stored items. These are a practical feature in both base and pantry cabinets.
Plywood
A high-quality material made of thin wood layers glued together. Plywood is often used for cabinet boxes due to its strength and durability.
V
Veneer
A thin layer of real wood or other material applied to a cabinet surface. Veneers provide the look of solid wood at a lower cost.
Additional resources
For more guidance on cabinets, review these resource pages:
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Cabinet Care and Maintenance Guide – Keep your cabinets looking their best.
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How to Choose the Right Cabinets – Tips for selecting the perfect style and material.
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FAQs – Get answers to common questions about cabinet design and installation.
This glossary is a starting point for understanding the terminology behind cabinet design and construction. For personalized assistance or to explore our full range of products, contact Willow Oak Cabinetry & Design today!
A
Adjustable Shelves
Shelves that can be moved to different heights to accommodate items of various sizes. These are common in modern cabinets and provide versatility in storage.
Arch Panel
A door style featuring an arched design on the upper panel, typically seen in traditional and classic cabinetry styles. See our How to Choose the Right Cabinets guide for tips on selecting a door style that suits your space.
B
Base Cabinet
A cabinet that sits directly on the floor, providing storage below the countertop. Base cabinets are a critical part of kitchen layouts, such as L-shaped or galley kitchens. Learn more about layout options in our blog: Kitchen Design Tips: Transform Your Space with Style and Functionality.
F
Face Frame
A structure attached to the front of a cabinet box that provides additional support and a traditional look. Framed cabinets are common in classic and transitional designs.
Frameless Cabinet
A cabinet style without a front face frame, creating a sleek, modern appearance. Learn more about the differences in our How to Choose the Right Cabinets guide.
G
Glaze
A finishing technique that adds depth and highlights details on cabinet doors and trim. Glazed finishes are often used in traditional and rustic styles.
Grain Matching
Aligning the wood grain pattern across multiple cabinet surfaces for a cohesive and visually appealing look. This feature is particularly striking in natural wood finishes.
H
Hardware
The knobs, pulls, and hinges used on cabinets. Hardware can dramatically influence the style of your cabinets, from modern to vintage.
High-Gloss Finish
A shiny, reflective finish that adds a modern and luxurious touch to cabinetry. High-gloss finishes are easy to clean but may show fingerprints more readily.
I
Inset Door
A cabinet door that sits flush with the cabinet frame, creating a sleek and seamless look. This style is popular in both traditional and modern designs.
L
Lazy Susan
A rotating shelf installed in corner cabinets to maximize storage and accessibility. These are a practical solution for hard-to-reach areas.
R
Raised Panel
A cabinet door style featuring a center panel that is slightly raised. This design is common in traditional and classic cabinetry.
Recessed Panel
A door style with a flat center panel that sits lower than the surrounding frame, as seen in Shaker-style cabinets.
S
Shaker Style
A timeless cabinet style characterized by clean lines and a recessed center panel. Shaker cabinets are versatile, fitting both modern and traditional spaces.
Soft-Close
A feature that prevents cabinet doors and drawers from slamming shut. Soft-close hinges and glides enhance functionality and extend the lifespan of your cabinets.
T
Toe Kick
The recessed space at the bottom of base cabinets that allows room for your feet. Toe kicks improve comfort while working in the kitchen.
Thermofoil
A vinyl coating applied to MDF for a smooth, durable surface. Thermofoil cabinets are available in various colors and finishes.
Ready to explore your options? Visit our Inspiration Gallery for ideas, or check out our Design Inspiration Blog for expert tips. When you’re ready to get started, schedule a consultation with our team. Let us help you find the perfect cabinets for your home!