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

On a notebook on her coffee table, she wrote Cynthia Renee Ortiz, doodling hearts around her prospective married name.

From Slate • Apr. 6, 2026

The host took umbrage and digitally manipulated photos to show damage to the property, including a large crack in a coffee table, claiming the guest had caused more than $15,000 in damage.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 3, 2026

His team is also planning to release a coffee table book about Los Angeles culture.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 13, 2026

But a few spots go further, inviting guests to purchase the sofa they napped on, or coffee table where they ate breakfast.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 7, 2026

“Of course he wants to bring you home,” Cecilia said, leaning out over the coffee table to be close to us.

From "Summer of the Mariposas" by Guadalupe García McCall