Dining Tables

A table is a form of furniture composed of a surface supported by a base, usually four legs. It is often used to hold objects or food at a convenient or comfortable height when sitting. Generic tables are typically meant for combined use with chairs. more...

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Unlike many earlier table designs, today's tables usually do not have drawers. A table specifically intended for working is a desk. Some tables have hinged extensions of the table top called drop leaves, while others can be extended with removable sections called leaves.

Etymology

The term "table" is derived from a merger of French table and Old English tabele, ultimately from the Latin word tabula, "a board, plank, flat piece". In Late Latin, tabula took over the meaning previously reserved to mensa (preserved in Spanish mesa "table"). In Old English, the word replaced bord for this meaning.

Shape, height, and function

Tables come in a wide variety of shapes, height, and materials, depending on their origin, style, and intended use. All tables are composed of a flat surface and a base with one or more supports, or legs. A table with a single, central foot is a pedestal table. Tables can be freestanding or designed for placement against a wall (a console table). Table tops can be in virtually any shape, although rectangular, square, round (e.g., the round table), and oval tops are the most frequent. Long tables often have extra legs for support. Others have higher surfaces for personal use while either standing or sitting on a tall stool.

Many tables have tops that can be adjusted to change their position or size, either with foldable extensions or sliding parts that can alter the shape of the top. Some tables are entirely foldable for easy transport, e.g., camping. Small tables in trains and aircraft may be fixed or foldable, although many are simply convenient shelves rather than tables.

Types of table

Tables of various shapes and sizes are designed for specific uses:

A bedside table is a small table used in a bedroom. It is often used for convenient placement of a small lamp, alarm clock, glasses, or other personal items. In American English it is called a nightstand.; A drawing table usually has a top that can be tilted for making large or technical drawing. It might have a ruler or similar element integrated.; A gateleg table has one or two hinged leaves that can drop vertically to contract the table surface area.; A coffee table is a low table designed for use in a living room, in front of a sofa, for convenient placement of drinks, books, or other personal items.; A chess table is a type of games table that integrates a chessboard.; A Refectory table is a long table designed to seat many people during dining.; A Dining room table is any table designed to be dined at.;

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