Etymology

The term that is "table" is derived from a merger of French table and Old English tabele, ultimately from the Latin word tabula, "a board, plank, flat top piece". In Late Latin, tabula took over the meaning previously reserved to mensa (preserved in Spanish mesa "table"). In Old English, the word was bord, replaced by "table" for this meaning.

Shape, height, and function

Tables come in a wide variety of materials, shapes, and heights, that depends on their origin, style, and intended use. All tables are composed of a flat surface and a base with one or more supports, or legs. A table with a single, central foot is a pedestal table. Tables can be freestanding or designed for placement against a wall (a console table). Table tops can be in virtually any shape, although rectangular, square, round (e.g., the round table), and oval tops are the most frequent. Long tables often have extra legs for support. Others have higher surfaces for personal use while either standing or sitting on a tall stool.

Many tables have tops that can be adjusted to change their position or size, either with foldable extensions or sliding parts that can alter the shape of the top. Some tables are entirely foldable for easy transport, e.g., camping. Small tables in trains and aircraft may be fixed or foldable, although many are simply convenient shelves rather than tables.

Types of table

Tables of various shapes and sizes are designed for specific uses:

• A bedside table, nightstand, or night table is a small table used in a bedroom. It is often used for convenient placement of a small lamp, alarm clock, glasses, or other personal items.
• A drawing table usually has a top that can be tilted for making large or technical drawing. It might have a ruler or similar element integrated.
• A gateleg table has one or two hinged leaves supported by hinged legs.
• A coffee table is a low table designed for use in a living room, in front of a sofa, for convenient placement of drinks, books, or other personal items.
• A chess table is a type of games table that integrates a chessboard.
• A refectory table is a long table designed to seat many people for meals.
• A dining room table is a table designed to be used for formal dining.