What does pouffe mean?
A pouffe is a low, upholstered seat without a back, commonly positioned near a sofa or chair so that a person can rest their feet. It may be round, square, or irregular in shape and can function as a footstool, occasional seat, or decorative furnishing. The word is especially common in British English; the spelling "pouf" is more typical in American English. Pouffes are often paired with sofas and armchairs, and designers use them to add colour, texture, or flexible seating to a room. Although the term can also describe a plump decorative cushion, its principal modern meaning is the low upholstered seat. The word should not be confused with the culinary use of "pouf" for a light choux pastry, which is particularly familiar in British and French contexts.
A low, upholstered seat without a back, used as a footstool or extra stool.
"He stretched out his legs on the pouffe beside the fireplace."
Chiefly British in this spelling; American English generally uses "pouf".
A plump, decorative cushion that can also be sat upon.
"The patterned pouffe added a bright accent to the neutral room."
The standard plural adds -es; "poufs" also occurs, especially in American English.
"Several velvet pouffes were arranged around the coffee table."
Often casually called an ottoman, a pouffe is the tufted cousin of the footstool—soft, low, and designed for feet rather than a full meal.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does pouffe come from?
The word was borrowed from French "pouffe," originally denoting a tuft or curl of hair and related to French "pouffer," meaning to puff or blow. The English furniture term developed in the 18th century for upholstered objects with a gathered or tufted appearance. Its relatives include "puff" and "puffy," while "pouf" became the principal American spelling of the seat.
Related word forms
How pouffe is actually used
In British English, "pouffe" is standard for the upholstered seat. American English more often uses the spelling "pouf," which can also have culinary senses in British usage.
Easily confused with pouffe
"Pouf" is the chiefly American spelling of the same upholstered seat, though in British English it can also denote a choux pastry.