There are many different types of chairs and perhaps you will have the need to ask for a specific one whilst speaking with a native English speaker. If this is the case, it will be super handy to know the words for the different types of chairs.
By being able to refer to the different types of chairs with their correct English names, you will be adding valuable words to your vocabulary as well as allowing yourself to sound much more like a native speaker of the language.
List of Chairs
Chair is a piece of furniture with a raised surface supported by legs, commonly used to seat a single person. Chairs appear in a number of rooms in homes (e.g. in living rooms, in bedrooms, …), in schools and offices, and in various other workplaces.
List of Chair Styles
- Sofa
- Park bench
- Upholstered bench
- Armchair
- Cantilever chair
- Wing chair
- Deck chair
- Desk chair
- Barber chair/ Salon chair
- Operator chair
- Executive chair
- Garden chair
- Director’s chair
- Chair
- Folding chair
- Throne
- Ladderback chair
- Stool
- Windsor chair
- Wheelchair
- Waiting room seat
- Wooden outdoor chair/ Adirondack chair (U.S.)
- Student chair
- Dining room chair
- Wood chair
- Recliner chair
- Rocking chair
- Accent chair
Chair Names with Pictures and Examples
Learn these chair types with examples to improve your vocabulary in English.
Sofa
A sofa is a piece of furniture designed for seating multiple people, typically with a backrest and armrests and often upholstered with fabric or leather.
- Example: She sat on the sofa with her family and watched a movie together on a lazy Sunday afternoon.
Park bench
A park bench is a long seat typically made of wood or metal and placed in public parks or gardens for people to sit and relax.
- Example: She sat on the park bench and enjoyed the view of the lake while reading a book.
Upholstered bench
An upholstered bench is a long seat with a padded cushion and often covered with fabric or leather.
- Example: She placed an upholstered bench at the end of her bed to add a stylish touch to her bedroom decor and provide extra seating.
Armchair
An armchair is a comfortable chair with armrests, typically designed for one person to sit in.
- Example: She sat in the armchair by the fireplace and read a book while sipping her tea.
Cantilever chair
A cantilever chair is a type of chair that has no back legs and is supported by a single beam or frame.
- Example: She sat in the cantilever chair at her desk and enjoyed the comfort and support it provided for her back.
Wing chair
A wing chair is a type of armchair with high backrests and side panels that extend outwards, resembling wings.
- Example: She sat in the wing chair by the window and enjoyed the view while sipping her coffee.
Deck chair
A deck chair is a type of chair designed for outdoor use, typically made of wood or metal and designed to fold for easy storage.
- Example: She lounged in the deck chair on her patio and enjoyed the warm summer breeze while reading a book.
Desk chair
A desk chair is a type of chair designed for use at a desk or table, typically with a swivel base and adjustable height.
- Example: She sat in the desk chair at her computer and adjusted the height and backrest for optimal comfort while working.
Barber chair/ Salon chair
A barber chair is a type of chair designed for use in a barbershop or hair salon, typically with a hydraulic lift and adjustable headrest.
- Example: He sat in the barber chair and enjoyed the comfortable seat and adjustable headrest while getting his hair cut.
Operator chair
An operator chair is a type of office chair designed for use by people who spend long hours sitting at a desk or computer.
- Example: “I need to invest in a comfortable operator chair for my home office to prevent back pain from sitting for extended periods of time.”
Executive chair
An executive chair is a type of office chair that is typically larger and more luxurious than other types of chairs. It is often used by high-level executives or managers who spend a lot of time in their offices.
- Example: “The CEO’s office featured a large mahogany desk and a plush executive chair, exuding an air of power and prestige.”
Garden chair
A garden chair is an outdoor chair designed for use in gardens, patios, or other outdoor spaces. It is often made of weather-resistant materials such as metal, plastic, or wood.
- Example: “We spent the afternoon lounging in the garden chairs, sipping lemonade and enjoying the warm summer breeze.”
Director’s chair
A director’s chair is a type of chair that is typically made of wood or metal and has a folding frame. It typically features a tall back and armrests, and can fold up for easy storage and transportation.
- Example: “The director sat in his director’s chair, barking orders to the cast and crew as they prepared for the next scene.”
Chair
A chair is a piece of furniture designed for sitting on.
- Example: I sat down on the chair to read my book.
Folding chair
A folding chair is a type of chair that can be easily folded for storage or transport.
- Example: We brought some folding chairs to the picnic so we could easily set them up and take them down.
Throne
A throne is a ceremonial chair used by a monarch or other high-ranking official to symbolize their power and authority.
- Example: The king sat on his ornate throne while his subjects bowed before him.
Ladderback chair
A ladderback chair is a type of chair that has a backrest made of horizontal slats that resemble a ladder.
- Example: The farmhouse kitchen was furnished with a set of rustic ladderback chairs.
Stool
A stool is a type of seat that typically has no backrest or armrests and is often used for seating at a counter or bar.
- Example: I pulled up a stool to the kitchen counter to enjoy my breakfast.
Windsor chair
A Windsor chair is a type of chair that has a solid wooden seat and a backrest made of spindles that are attached to a central hub.
- Example: The classic Windsor chair is a timeless design that has been popular for centuries.
Wheelchair
A wheelchair is a mobility device that is used by people with disabilities or injuries to move around. It typically has four wheels and is propelled either manually or by an electric motor.
- Example: My grandmother uses a wheelchair to get around because she has trouble walking long distances.
Waiting room seat
A waiting room seat is a type of chair that is typically found in a waiting area of a building, such as a doctor’s office or airport.
- Example: I sat down on a waiting room seat while I waited for my name to be called.
Wooden outdoor chair/ Adirondack chair (U.S.)
A wooden outdoor chair is a type of chair that is designed to be used outside, typically made of wood that is treated to withstand the elements.
- Example: We sat on the wooden outdoor chairs on the patio and enjoyed the warm summer evening.
Student chair
A student chair is a type of chair that is designed for use in a classroom or other educational setting. It typically has a desk attached to it for writing or holding books.
- Example: The teacher asked the students to take their seats in their student chairs and begin their work.
Dining room chair
A dining room chair is a type of chair that is designed for use at a dining table. It is typically comfortable and has a sturdy frame to support the weight of the person sitting in it.
- Example: We gathered around the dining room table and took our seats in the comfortable dining room chairs.
Wood chair
A wood chair is a type of chair that is made entirely or mostly of wood. It can be designed in various styles and can be used for different purposes.
- Example: The antique wood chair in the corner of the room added a touch of elegance to the decor.
Types of Chairs
Armchairs
Armchairs, as the name suggests, are chairs with armrests. They often provide plush seating and supportive backrests, perfect for lounging and relaxing. These chairs come in a variety of styles – you might find one in a cozy corner or as a timeless piece in a living room.
Side Chairs
Side chairs are versatile and minimalistic in design. They’re commonly used around dining tables or as extra seating in living spaces. Unlike armchairs, side chairs lack armrests, allowing them to fit easily into smaller spaces or under tables.
Reclining Chairs
Reclining chairs offer the perfect opportunity to kick back and put your feet up! These chairs come with an adjustable backrest and footrest, and some may even include built-in massage features. They’re ideal for living rooms, home theaters, or even bedrooms as a comfortable alternative to a traditional chair.
Stools
Stools are a great space-saving option that can double as seating and storage. They come in various heights, shapes, and materials, from bar stools to simple step stools. They can be both functional and stylish depending on the design.
Chaise Longues
Chaise longues add a touch of elegance to any space. They’re an elongated chair with an angled backrest where you can stretch out and relax. Chaise longues can be found in living rooms, bedrooms, or even poolside areas, adding a luxurious feel to your space.
Ottoman
Ottomans are versatile pieces that serve multiple functions. They can be used as footrests, additional seating, or with a tray on top, an alternative to a coffee table. With the right fabric and design, an ottoman can also serve as a statement piece in your living room.
Bar Chairs
Bar chairs, or barstools, are tall chairs designed to pair with bar-height surfaces like counters or home bars. They come in various styles, from classic wooden stools to sleek metal designs, adding personality to any entertainment space.
Desk Chairs
Desk chairs, also known as office chairs, provide essential support and comfort for people working at a desk. They often feature adjustable heights and ergonomically designed backrests to ensure proper posture while working. With countless styles available, desk chairs can blend seamlessly with your workspace or make a bold statement.
Accent Chairs
Finally, accent chairs can bring life and character to any room. They don’t necessarily need to match the rest of the room’s decor but should instead complement it. Accent chairs come in a wide variety of shapes, colors, and styles, providing an easy way to update and transform a space.
Chair Styles | Types of Chairs Video
Chair styles video with American English pronunciation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common living room chair styles?
There are several popular living room chair styles to choose from. Some common options include the classic armchair, which is comfortable and versatile; the club chair, which features a wide seat and plush cushioning; the wingback chair, with its high-backed design and eye-catching silhouette; and the recliner, ideal for relaxing while watching TV or reading a book. Contemporary round chairs and loveseats also make for stylish and cozy living room seating options.
What are different types of wooden chairs?
Wooden chairs come in various designs and can be made from different types of wood like oak, maple, walnut, and teak. Some popular wooden chair styles include the classic Windsor chair, known for its spindle back and curved features; the ladder back chair, with horizontal wooden slats forming the backrest; the Adirondack chair, often used outdoors and recognized for its wide, flat arms; and the bentwood chair, crafted by bending and molding wooden components into curved shapes.
What chairs are best for events?
When it comes to events, choosing the right chair can greatly influence the comfort and aesthetic of the occasion. Folding chairs are a popular choice due to their portability and ease of storage. The classic Chiavari chair is often used for formal events like weddings, as they are elegant in appearance and stackable for convenient storage. Other options include the versatile banquet chair, usually cushioned and customizable with fabric to match event themes, and the barstool, perfect for high-top tables at cocktail parties or receptions.
What’s a popular type of armchair?
One of the most popular types of armchair is the wingback chair. This classic design features a high back, side panels or "wings" that embrace the sitter, and usually well-cushioned seats for added comfort. It's a great choice for adding a statement piece to your home, as well as offering a cozy spot to read or unwind. Modern wingback chairs may come in smaller sizes and a variety of materials and styles to suit different tastes.
What are some unique chair designs?
Unique chair designs can transform a space and showcase an individual's personal style. Some examples include the iconic Eames lounge chair, characterized by its modern, curved form, and high-quality materials; the egg chair, which features a rounded, cocoon-like shape providing a sense of privacy and comfort; the Papasan chair, with its circular cushion and low-to-the-ground design; and the bubble chair, a transparent, hanging seat that adds a futuristic touch to any space. These chairs not only make a strong visual impact but also provide innovative ways to relax and enjoy your environment.
Furniture Names
Learn different types of furniture in English with examples and pictures.
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