餐桌
A dining table is a piece of furniture where people sit to eat their meals.
Explanation at your level:
A dining table is a big table. You sit at the dining table to eat. It is in the dining room or the kitchen. You put your plates and food on the dining table. It is a very important place in your house. You can sit with your family here. It is nice to eat together at the dining table.
The dining table is a piece of furniture for eating meals. Most houses have one in the kitchen or a separate dining room. You can set the table with forks and knives before you eat. Many families talk while sitting at the dining table. It is usually made of wood, glass, or plastic. It is a comfortable place to sit and enjoy your food with friends or family.
A dining table serves as the central hub for meals in most homes. Beyond eating, it is often a versatile space where people work, study, or play games. When you are hosting guests, you might clear the dining table to make space for drinks or snacks. It is common to describe a dining table by its material, such as a 'wooden dining table' or a 'glass-topped dining table'. Choosing the right size is important so that everyone has enough space to sit comfortably during a meal.
The dining table represents more than just a surface for food; it is a symbol of domesticity and social connection. In interior design, the dining table is often the focal point of a room, chosen to match the home's aesthetic. We often use phrases like 'sitting around the dining table' to imply a sense of intimacy and conversation. Whether it is an extendable table for large dinner parties or a compact table for a small apartment, the dining table is essential for hospitality. It is where we host, celebrate, and bond with others.
The dining table functions as a cultural artifact that reflects the social habits of a household. In academic or formal contexts, it is often discussed in terms of its role in commensality—the act of eating together as a social group. Historically, the dining table has evolved from a utilitarian board to a centerpiece of status and craftsmanship. Its presence in a home facilitates the 'breaking of bread,' a foundational human ritual that transcends mere sustenance. When we say someone 'brings something to the table,' we metaphorically evoke the collaborative spirit that a shared dining table historically represents.
The dining table is a profound architectural and social construct. Etymologically rooted in the Latin tabula, it has transitioned from a temporary trestle arrangement to a permanent, often heirloom-quality fixture. In literature and film, the dining table frequently serves as a stage for domestic drama, conflict, and reconciliation. It is a liminal space where the private sphere meets the public, as it is the primary site for entertaining guests. The materiality—mahogany, marble, reclaimed wood—often conveys the socioeconomic status of the inhabitants. Ultimately, the dining table is the anchor of the domestic landscape, a silent witness to the daily rhythms, milestones, and interpersonal dynamics of those who gather around it.
واژه در 30 ثانیه
- A dining table is for eating meals.
- It is a central piece of furniture.
- It is a countable noun.
- It is often used for social gatherings.
When we talk about a dining table, we are referring to the heart of the home. It is not just a piece of wood or glass; it is a gathering place where stories are shared over a meal.
In most homes, the dining table is the primary surface for eating. Whether it is a small bistro table for two or a massive mahogany piece meant for a feast, its purpose remains the same: to provide a stable, comfortable space for dining and socializing.
You will find that the term dining table specifically distinguishes this piece of furniture from a desk, a coffee table, or a workbench. It implies a social function, often associated with hospitality and domestic life.
The word dining comes from the Old French disner, which meant to break one's fast. The word table originates from the Latin tabula, meaning a board, plank, or flat piece of wood.
Historically, tables were simple, often just planks laid across trestles that could be taken down after a meal. It wasn't until the Middle Ages that the dining table became a more permanent fixture in European homes, signaling wealth and stability.
Over centuries, the design evolved from heavy, rustic oak tables in medieval halls to the elegant, ornate designs of the Victorian era. Today, the dining table represents a cultural evolution—a shift from mere survival to the art of communal dining.
You use dining table when describing the specific furniture used for meals. It is a neutral term, suitable for both casual conversation and formal real estate descriptions.
Common collocations include set the table, which means to arrange plates and cutlery, and clear the table, which means to remove them after eating. You might also hear people talk about a dining table centerpiece, referring to decorations placed in the middle.
In casual settings, people might just say the table if the context is clear. However, using the full term dining table helps avoid confusion if you have multiple tables in your house, such as a coffee table or a side table.
While there are few idioms using the exact words 'dining table', we use many related to the table itself. To bring something to the table means to provide something useful, like a skill or idea. Example: 'She brings years of experience to the table.'
To turn the tables means to reverse a situation. Example: 'The underdog turned the tables on the champion.' Keep the table turning refers to keeping conversation flowing. Under the table implies something illegal or secretive. Example: 'They made an under the table deal.' At the table implies being part of a negotiation or discussion. Example: 'We need everyone at the table to decide.'
The word dining table is a compound noun. It is a countable noun, so we say 'a dining table' or 'two dining tables'.
The pronunciation is /ˈdaɪnɪŋ ˌteɪbl/. Note the stress on the first syllable of 'dining'. It rhymes with words like stable, cable, fable, label, and maple.
Grammatically, it functions as the subject or object of a sentence. For example: 'The dining table is made of oak' (subject) or 'We bought a new dining table' (object). It is almost always preceded by an article like 'the' or 'a'.
Fun Fact
In ancient times, tables were often just movable boards.
Pronunciation Guide
Clear 'd' sound, 'i' as in 'bit', 'ai' as in 'my'.
Similar to UK, slightly more emphasis on the 't' sound.
Common Errors
- Pronouncing 'dining' as 'din-ing' (two syllables)
- Ignoring the 'g' at the end of dining
- Mispronouncing the 'a' in table as 'ah'
Rhymes With
Difficulty Rating
Very easy to read.
Simple to use.
Common word.
Clear pronunciation.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
پیشرفته
Grammar to Know
Compound Nouns
Dining + Table
Countable Nouns
One table, two tables
Prepositions of Place
At the table
Examples by Level
The dining table is big.
The / dining table / is / big.
Simple subject-verb-adjective.
I sit at the dining table.
I / sit / at / the / dining table.
Preposition 'at' for location.
We eat at the dining table.
We / eat / at / the / dining table.
Verb 'eat' with location.
The food is on the dining table.
The / food / is / on / the / dining table.
Preposition 'on' for surface.
This is a new dining table.
This / is / a / new / dining table.
Article 'a' for singular noun.
My dining table is brown.
My / dining table / is / brown.
Possessive pronoun 'my'.
The dining table is clean.
The / dining table / is / clean.
Adjective describing the table.
Do you like the dining table?
Do / you / like / the / dining table?
Interrogative sentence.
We set the dining table for four people.
The dining table is made of oak.
Please clear the dining table after dinner.
They bought a round dining table.
The kids are doing homework at the dining table.
I spilled juice on the dining table.
The dining table is too large for this room.
We need to buy a new dining table.
The family gathered around the dining table for the holiday feast.
She decorated the dining table with fresh flowers.
Our dining table can extend to seat twelve people.
He accidentally scratched the surface of the dining table.
We spent hours talking at the dining table.
The dining table was covered in papers and books.
They chose a glass dining table for a modern look.
Every evening, we meet at the dining table to discuss our day.
The antique dining table was the centerpiece of the room.
Despite the small space, they managed to fit a stylish dining table.
He polished the dining table until it shone.
The dining table has seen many celebrations over the years.
We had to move the dining table to clean the carpet.
The dining table is the heart of our home.
A sturdy dining table is a great investment for any family.
She insisted on a marble dining table for the new house.
The dining table became the stage for a heated political debate.
The craftsmanship of the Victorian dining table was exquisite.
An elegant dining table can elevate the entire atmosphere of a room.
They sat at the dining table, negotiating the terms of the contract.
The dining table was cluttered with remnants of the previous night's party.
He inherited the family dining table, a relic of his grandmother's era.
The dining table provides a sense of continuity in a changing world.
The minimalist dining table blended perfectly with the industrial decor.
The dining table, scarred by years of use, held memories of countless gatherings.
The ritual of gathering at the dining table is central to their cultural identity.
The dining table stood as a silent sentinel in the abandoned house.
They engaged in a long, philosophical discourse across the dining table.
The dining table was a testament to the family's history and resilience.
He found solace in the simple act of setting the dining table.
The dining table, a massive slab of walnut, dominated the dining hall.
The dining table is the crucible where family values are often shaped.
ترکیبهای رایج
Idioms & Expressions
"bring something to the table"
to provide a useful skill or idea
What do you bring to the table?
neutral"turn the tables"
to reverse a situation
He turned the tables on his opponent.
neutral"at the table"
involved in a discussion/negotiation
We need everyone at the table.
neutral"under the table"
secretly or illegally
They made an under the table payment.
casual"keep the table turning"
keep conversation moving
She did a great job keeping the table turning.
formal"eat at the table"
to dine properly
We always eat at the table.
neutralEasily Confused
Both are flat surfaces.
Desks are for work, tables for eating.
I study at my desk, I eat at the dining table.
Both are in the kitchen.
Counters are for prep, tables for sitting.
I chop on the counter, I sit at the table.
It has 'table' in the name.
Coffee tables are low and for living rooms.
We put drinks on the coffee table.
Both are tables.
Workbenches are for tools.
He uses the workbench for repairs.
Sentence Patterns
Subject + sit at + the dining table
We sit at the dining table.
Subject + set + the dining table
She sets the dining table.
Subject + clear + the dining table
They clear the dining table.
There is a + dining table + in the room
There is a dining table in the room.
The dining table is made of + material
The dining table is made of oak.
خانواده کلمه
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
مرتبط
How to Use It
8/10
Formality Scale
اشتباهات رایج
Food table is not standard English.
Desks are for work, not dining.
You sit 'at' a table, not 'on' it (unless you are standing on it).
Dining is the act, dinner is the meal.
It is a singular countable noun.
Tips
Rhyme Time
Table rhymes with stable.
Set the Table
Always use 'set' for arranging.
Family Time
It's a symbol of family.
Articles
Always use 'the' or 'a'.
The 'g' sound
Don't drop the 'g' in dining.
Preposition
Use 'at', not 'on'.
History
It used to be a movable board.
Labeling
Put a sticky note on your table.
Compound
It's two words acting as one.
Syllable stress
Stress the first part.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Dine at the table, table is stable.
Visual Association
Imagine a big wooden table with a feast on it.
Word Web
چالش
Describe your dining table in three sentences.
ریشه کلمه
English (Dining from French, Table from Latin)
Original meaning: A board for eating
بافت فرهنگی
None, universally understood.
The dining table is often the site of Sunday roasts or holiday meals.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
At home
- set the table
- dinner time
- family meal
Buying furniture
- extendable table
- solid wood
- seats six
Hosting a party
- dinner party
- table setting
- guest list
Cleaning
- clear the table
- wipe the surface
- dust the legs
Conversation Starters
"Do you eat at your dining table every day?"
"What kind of dining table do you have?"
"Is your dining table big enough for guests?"
"Do you prefer a round or square dining table?"
"What is your favorite memory at the dining table?"
Journal Prompts
Describe the dining table you grew up with.
If your dining table could talk, what would it say?
Why is the dining table important for families?
Plan your dream dining room setup.
سوالات متداول
8 سوالBoth are correct, but dining table is more common.
No, a desk is for work.
Dining tables.
Yes.
Dining room or kitchen.
Yes, usually 'the' or 'a'.
Yes, many people do.
It is neutral.
خودت رو بسنج
We sit at the ___ to eat.
The dining table is for eating.
What do you do to the table before eating?
We set the table.
A dining table is only for eating.
It is also for working and socializing.
Word
معنی
Common collocations.
We sat at the dining table.
امتیاز: /5
Summary
The dining table is the heart of the home where people gather to eat and connect.
- A dining table is for eating meals.
- It is a central piece of furniture.
- It is a countable noun.
- It is often used for social gatherings.
Rhyme Time
Table rhymes with stable.
Set the Table
Always use 'set' for arranging.
Family Time
It's a symbol of family.
Articles
Always use 'the' or 'a'.
