coffee table

noun

1. a low table, usually placed in front of a sofa, for holding ashtrays, snack bowls, glasses, magazines, etc.

coffee table

noun

1. a low table, on which newspapers, etc, may be placed and coffee served
2. modifier implying an emphasis on appearance and style over substance

   coffee-table music

Word History and Origins

Origin of coffee table¹

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

The 160-page coffee table book features The Times’ award-winning reporting, commentary and photography.

From Los Angeles Times

The couple barricaded the door with their couch and the window with a coffee table, according to the lawsuit.

From Los Angeles Times

And the expressive Garfield can convey water-eyed empathy so deftly that you know Tobias would be laid low if Almut so much as stubbed her toe on the leg of a coffee table.

From Los Angeles Times

In the carcass of one burnt-out home, a board game rests on top of a coffee table, next to a melted television remote control.

From BBC

Mo Ida Solomon’s head rested on a coffee table.

From Los Angeles Times