armchair

UK: ˈɑːm.tʃeə | US: ˈɑːrm.tʃer

Definition

  1. n. a comfortable chair with side supports for a person's arms

  2. n. (figurative) theoretical or uninvolved perspective (e.g., "armchair critic")

Structure
arm <limb>chair <seat>
Etymology

The word "armchair" is a straightforward compound of "arm" (from Old English earm, meaning "limb") and "chair" (from Old French chaiere, derived from Latin cathedra, meaning "seat"). It literally describes a chair with armrests. The figurative sense ("armchair critic/theorist") emerged in the 19th century, humorously implying someone who offers opinions while comfortably seated rather than engaging practically.

Examples

  1. She relaxed in her favorite armchair with a book.

  2. The antique armchair was upholstered in velvet.

  3. He’s just an armchair traveler, dreaming of places he’s never visited.

  4. The professor dismissed the argument as armchair philosophy.

  5. The cat curled up on the armchair and fell asleep.