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Armchair Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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armchair

[ˈɑːmˌtʃɛər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

furniture

A comfortable chair with side supports for a person's arms.

Synonyms

easy chair, lounge chair, recliner.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
armchair

This is a chair with armrests and is typically used in living rooms or studies for comfortable seating. It's common in both formal and informal settings.

  • He spent the afternoon reading in his cozy armchair.
  • The armchair in the corner of the room is my favorite place to relax.
easy chair

An easy chair is a type of armchair designed for comfort, often with a soft seat and backrest. It’s great for informal settings like a family room or a home library.

  • After a long day at work, she loves to sink into her easy chair and watch TV.
  • The living room is furnished with a large couch and an easy chair.
recliner

A recliner is a type of chair that can lean back while raising its front to provide a comfortable position for the legs. It's commonly used in living rooms for watching TV or napping. Some recliners can have additional features like built-in massagers.

  • He fell asleep in his recliner after a hearty meal.
  • The new recliner has a built-in cup holder and massager.
lounge chair

This chair is meant for lounging and often has an extended seat for leg support, making it ideal for relaxation areas, poolsides, or outdoor patios.

  • He spent the afternoon sunbathing on his lounge chair by the pool.
  • The lounge chair on the veranda is perfect for reading and looking out over the garden.

Examples of usage

  • The living room was furnished with a cozy armchair.
  • She sat back in the armchair and relaxed after a long day.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Design

  • Armchairs come in various styles, such as recliners, wingbacks, and club chairs, showcasing diverse designs from different eras.
  • They often use materials like fabric, leather, and wood, reflecting cultural influences from around the world.

Pop Culture

  • In many films and television shows, armchairs symbolize comfort and relaxation, often featured in scenes of characters unwinding.
  • The phrase 'armchair quarterback' is used to describe someone who judges or comments on events without being directly involved.

Psychology

  • Sitting in an armchair can evoke feelings of safety and comfort, making it a common choice in therapy settings.
  • Research suggests that the environment, including furniture choice, can influence mood and stress levels.

History

  • Historically, armchairs were often associated with wealth, as they were more expensive and luxurious than basic seating.
  • In medieval times, only important figures such as kings and bishops had armchairs, highlighting their status.

Origin of 'armchair'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'armchair' comes from the combination of 'arm' (a place to rest your arms) and 'chair' (a seat for sitting).
  • The word dates back to the 16th century, indicating its long-standing presence in home furniture design.

The term 'armchair' originated in the late 17th century, combining the words 'arm' and 'chair'. It refers to a chair designed for comfort and relaxation, often associated with leisurely activities such as reading or watching TV.

See also: chair, chairman, chairperson, chairs, chairwoman.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,159, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.