Murphy bed

American  

noun

1. a bed constructed so that it can be folded or swung into a closet.

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Murphy bed British  

noun

1. a bed designed to be folded or swung into a cabinet when not in use

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Etymology

Origin of Murphy bed

1920–25; named after William L. Murphy (1876–1959), American inventor

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

Murphy bed

With limited economic resources, he began scouring online marketplaces to surround his Murphy bed with a cheap wooden table, a budget chandelier, battery-powered candles and modest wall sconces.

From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 4, 2024

Chan updated the side-by-side spaces to include an art studio for Gerwin, an office and guest room with a Murphy bed and a small existing bathroom.

From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 26, 2024

Multipurpose design has come a long way since the Murphy bed was invented in 1900 to allow rooms to be “parlors” by day and bedrooms by night.

From Seattle Times ● Jan. 13, 2023

So my husband and I gave up our bedroom to sleep on a Murphy bed in our living room.

From Washington Post ● Dec. 13, 2022

The resulting room is what she described as “dark and moody” with a walnut-stained Murphy bed, forest green vertical shiplap wall and gold accents.

From Seattle Times ● Nov. 30, 2022