noun
ottoman
AH-tuh-mun/ˈɑːtəmən/
A low padded seat often used as a footrest.
The padded ottoman has short legs and no back.
Etymology
The name belonging to Uthman became a dynastic label, then a furniture name: reclining on a backless couch was associated with Eastern customs. The term later extended to a smaller seat or footstool.
In context
She shook hands with him, and sat down by a writing table near the window, pointing to him to sit on an ottoman a little distance away.
More examples
- The upholstered ottoman stood beside the armchair.
- A visitor used the ottoman as an extra seat.
- The ottoman opened to reveal a storage compartment.
Forms
ottoman · ottomans
Similar words
- footstool
- A footstool supports the feet; an ottoman is usually padded and may also serve as a seat.
- pouf
- A pouf is a rounded cushioned seat or footrest, often without legs; an ottoman can have a firmer frame and legs.