credenza
UK[krɪˈden.zə]US[krɪˈden.zə]
n
a sideboard, cupboard, or cabinet, often without legs, used especially for storing dishes or as a serving surface.
n
a piece of office furniture, typically with a flat top and low cabinets, used for storage or as a work surface.
Etymology
the word 'credenza' entered english in the late 19th century directly from italian, where it means 'sideboard' or 'cupboard'. the italian term itself originates from the medieval latin 'credentia', meaning 'belief' or 'trust'. this semantic shift stems from the medieval practice of having a servant taste food and drink from a sideboard before it was served to a lord, as a test of safety to earn 'trust'. thus, the furniture's name evolved from the concept of the trust placed in the act performed upon it.
Analysis
the entire word 'credenza' is a simplex loanword from italian. it does not contain separable english morphemes.
Examples
the caterers arranged the appetizers beautifully on the wooden credenza.
she stored all her office supplies in the drawers of her credenza.
the antique credenza in the dining room was a family heirloom.