Coffee Table Glossary from CoffeeTables123

When you start shopping for coffee tables, you might run into a few terms you aren’t familiar with. Fortunately, you have the coffee table glossary to help you learn more about these tables and the terminology associated with them.

Common Coffee Table Terms

Cabriole – cabriole is a leg shape that is common on Queen Anne and Chippendale style coffee tables. The leg is formed into an S-shape, bending outward at the top and then tapering and bending inward to a decorative foot.

Casual– casual style tables are characterized by a simple design and soft details.

Chippendale – these tables are typically wood, with flowing lines and rococo ornamentation.

Coffee Table – a low table that sits in front of the sofa in the living or sitting room. They are typically a resting place for drinks, hors d’oeuvres, magazines, and the occasional knickknack.

Cocktail Table – smaller, curvier coffee tables.

Colonial – this style was developed during Europe’s colonial period.

Contemporary – a style that is between traditional and casual, with straight clean lines and very few carvings or embellishments.

Country – a no-frills casual style that includes some traditional designs and is typically made with light or warm colored woods. Also called “rustic.”

End Table – These tables accent the style of the coffee table and the rest of the living room. Usually set on either end of the couch.

Mission/Shaker – extremely simple style. Yields furniture that is both useful and durable.

Modern – these are artistic coffee tables with clean lines, industrial elements, and bold color choices. Usually very simple, with heavy emphasis on practicality.

Molding – decorative embellishments that protrude outward from the surface of the apron or the table top.

Nesting Tables – a set of tables that can be stored one under the other.

Novelty – a style that complements a theme or makes a statement.

Ottoman – a low, wide, upholstered stool that can serve as a coffee table.

Overlay – a decorative layer on a tabletop made from different colored wood or other materials.

Paint Finish – a painted finish on a table. This can include finishes that are only one color or multicolored designs or scenes.

Patina – the coating that develops on any metal surface through age and use.

Polyurethane – the clear plastic overlay applied to some coffee tables.

Queen Anne – an 18th century style with simple designs and soft shapes.

Sheraton – a style characterized by straight lines.

Stain – applied to lighter woods to color them and highlight the grain.

Tapered Leg – a table leg that is wider at the top and gradually narrows toward the bottom.

Tempered Glass – glass that has been manufactured to be stronger than regular glass. It will shatter into small fragments with minimal sharp edges, as opposed to large shards.

Traditional Style – an ornate, ordered, bold style full of contrast. Usually accented with curved details, brass and iron pulls, and hand painted wood.

Varnish – a finish to protect and darken the wood.

Veneer – a thin panel of wood applied on top of a coffee table made of cheaper wood.

Victorian – a subset of the traditional furniture style.

Wax – a finish to enhance the natural appearance of the wood and to protect it.

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