What is rocking chair? How to use in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of rocking chair

rocking chairnoun

ghế bập bênh

/ˈrɒkɪŋ tʃeə(r)//ˈrɑːkɪŋ tʃer/

Where does the word rocking chair come from?

The term "rocking chair" first appeared in the English language in the 1760s. The origin of the expression "rocking chair" comes from the way the chair moves when it is pushed or pulled gently back and forth, which causes it to rock. The chair's rocking motion is due to its design, which includes curved or slanted legs that allow it to tilt slightly backwards. The first recorded appearance of a rocking chair was in a description of the Pennsylvania governor's study in 1774. The concept of rocking chairs is not unique to English, and similar chairs have been found in other parts of the world, such as China, where traditional chairs have curved legs that allow for rocking. However, the modern rocking chair design, popularized in the United States during the late 18th century, differs from traditional chairs in that it is typically larger and more heavily constructed. The practice of rocking in a chair is believed to originate in the colonial era when rocking cradles for babies were developed. Rocking cradles were so popular that adults began to seek out furniture that allowed them to experience the same relaxing movement. Overall, the term "rocking chair" has stayed relatively unchanged since it first appeared in the English language, with its meaning and purpose continuing to bring comfort and relaxation to people all over the world.

Example of vocabulary rocking chairnamespace

  • The elderly lady spent her afternoons rocking gently in her wooden rocking chair by the window, watching the world go by.
  • The antique rocking chair with its intricate carvings and velvet cushions added a touch of elegance to the Victorian-themed bedroom.
  • The mother rocked her newborn baby to sleep in the soothing rhythm of the rocking chair, her heart full of love and worry.
  • The nouveau-riche couple languished in their velvet rocking chairs, sipping cocktails and marveling at their vast fortune as the night sky lit the room with its glittering stars.
  • The hanging swing chair enticed the kids, but the rocking chair held a special place in Grandma's heart as she reminisced of times gone by.

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