What does table mean?
A table is a flat surface supported by legs, typically used for writing, eating, working, or arranging objects. By extension, the word refers to information presented in an orderly grid, such as a table of prices, dates, or statistics, and to the people gathered around such a surface. It can also denote the game of table tennis. As a verb, 'to table' means to postpone consideration of a matter or set it aside for later discussion, a usage especially associated with formal committee and legislative language. The word’s broad range—from furniture to information and from meal settings to political procedure—makes it a familiar part of both everyday and professional vocabulary.
A piece of furniture with a flat top and usually legs, used for working, eating, writing, or placing objects; also, an orderly arrangement of information in rows and columns.
"The book was open on the table."
The word is also used for a chart or list, such as a statistical table, and for the game of table tennis.
To postpone consideration of a matter or set it aside for later discussion.
"The members tabled the amendment and agreed to return to it next week."
This use is characteristic of formal committee, legislative, and parliamentary contexts.
The plural is used for individual pieces of furniture, information displays, and games, and also for the people seated around a table.
"The tables were arranged in rows across the hall."
From the Latin for a board or panel, the word 'table' grew from a flat surface into a system for making information visible—and, as a verb, for putting it on hold.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of table
The English word derives ultimately from Latin tabula, meaning a board, tablet, or panel. The Old French form table referred to a flat board or table and was adopted into Middle English. The verb meaning 'to postpone' developed in the 19th century, originally in the sense of placing an item on a table so that it would be considered later.
Related word forms
How table is actually used
In the verb sense, 'table' is especially common in British, Canadian, and Australian English, though it is also used in formal American English. 'Table a proposal' means to defer discussion rather than necessarily to reject it. The phrase 'turn the tables' refers to a reversal in the course of a contest or conflict.
Easily confused with table
A table is generally a piece of furniture or an organized display of information, whereas a tablet is a small flat object, such as a medicinal tablet or an electronic device.