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

In front of us, on a coffee table, rests a pile of family photographs.

From BBC

The Cash and Morrison books seem destined for their fans’ coffee tables.

From The Wall Street Journal

Jeong’s affinity for the whimsical beagle was passed down to her from her parents, who furnished their home with commemorative “Peanuts” coffee table books.

From Los Angeles Times

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