coffee table

American  

noun

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

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coffee table British  

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

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Etymology

Origin of coffee table

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

Many of the books sit on her coffee table, while others are situated on a “rare” Gibson piano her pal helped her to track down.

From MarketWatch

Filled with photos and memorabilia, the coffee table book reflects on the "40 years since I quit my day job and ran off to join the circus".

From BBC

Two gold swans provide the base of a glass coffee table right in front of it.

From Los Angeles Times

Whether you’re on the hunt for toys for kids, pottery, coffee table books or something distinctive this holiday season, these small independent stores in Los Angeles have you covered.

From Los Angeles Times

In one of my friend’s first apartments after college she had an imitation Noguchi coffee table we called the Fauxguchi.

From Barron's