coffee-table

1 of 2

adjective

cof·​fee-ta·​ble ˈkȯ-fē-ˌtā-bəl How to pronounce coffee-table (audio)
ˈkä-
Synonyms of coffee-tablenext
: of, relating to, or being an article (such as a book or magazine) intended for display (as on a coffee table)

coffee table

2 of 2

noun

: a low table customarily placed in front of a sofa

called also cocktail table

Examples of coffee-table in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
This isn’t a coffee-table book. — Nicholas Quah, Vulture, 13 Feb. 2026 Three new coffee-table books round out that picture. — Air Mail, 4 Apr. 2026
Noun
There was a glass coffee table between us, and under that was a cardboard box full of toys. — Will MacKin, New Yorker, 28 June 2026 This reclaimed wood coffee table is made from soft pine and has a closed grain pattern for a rustic feel. — Brittany Vanderbill, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for coffee-table

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1962, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1877, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of coffee-table was in 1877

Rhymes for coffee-table

See All Rhymes for coffee-table

Browse Nearby Words

coffee spoon
coffee-table
coffee table
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Coffee-table.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/coffee-table. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

coffee table

noun
: a low table usually placed in front of a sofa
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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