What is bedside table? How to use in English

Discover the meaning of bedside table in English, its pronunciation, and how to use it correctly in real-life situations. See examples and easy memorization tips.

Definition & pronunciation of bedside table

bedside tablenoun

bàn đầu giường

/ˌbedsaɪd ˈteɪbl//ˌbedsaɪd ˈteɪbl/

Where does the word bedside table come from?

The term "bedside table" originated in the late 19th century. Prior to this, people placed items such as books, lamps, and water jugs directly on the floor or the side of the bed. These items were often made of materials like wood, stone, or earthenware and lined the walls of the bedroom, forming a sort of makeshift shelf just behind the headboard. In the late 1800s, furniture designers began creating a small table that could be placed next to the bed for convenience. Initially called "night stands," these tables were smaller than traditional bedroom furniture and had a simple design, often made of wood with a single drawer or shelf. As they became more popular, manufacturers started making them in a variety of materials, including glass, metal, and plastic, to match different decor styles. The name "bedside table" became the commonly used term in the mid-20th century, as it better conveyed the function and purpose of the furniture piece. Today, bedside tables are a necessary element in many bedrooms, serving as both a practical and decorative item that complements the overall design of the room.

Example of vocabulary bedside tablenamespace

  • The author's nightstand was covered in piles of books and empty water bottles, indicating a restless night's sleep.
  • The clock on the bedside table read 3:00 AM as the protagonist fumbled for her glasses and groggily checked the time.
  • She reached out to her bedside table and grabbed her prescription medication, carefully following the instructions to ease her racing heart.
  • The couple's bedside table was decorated with small photos of their wedding day, reminding them of their happy memories.
  • The scientist's bedside table was scattered with half-empty containers of test tubes and vials, a clear sign of his late-night experiments.

Synonyms and related words for bedside table


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