bench

The word “bench” means a long seat for more than one person, found in parks, courts, or changing rooms. In plain terms, a long seat, a judge’s seat (and the judiciary itself), a substitutes’ area in sport, a work surface, or (as a verb) to sideline someone or to bench-press weights.

“Bench” is pronounced BEHNCH (/ˈbɛnt͡ʃ/ in IPA).

Here is “bench” used in a sentence: “They sat on a park bench and watched the ducks.”

Depending on how it is used, “bench” can be a noun and a verb.

The word “bench” comes from Old English. From Old English benċ, "bench" — related to "bank" (both come from the same old Germanic root for a raised seat or shelf).

“Bench” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

“Bench” has 6 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a long seat for more than one person, found in parks, courts, or changing rooms.

A chair is designed to seat one person and usually has a back and arms. A bench is a long, backless or backed seat built for several people to sit side by side. Benches are common in parks, hallways, and changing rooms, where seating many people matters more than individual comfort.

Beyond furniture, the bench has figurative meanings. In law, the bench refers to judges collectively or the office of a judge, from the seat they occupy in court. In sport, the bench is where substitute players sit, so a benched player is one kept out of the game.

Benches vary by setting and purpose. Park benches are outdoor seats, often of wood or metal. Changing-room and locker benches suit sports facilities. A workbench is a sturdy table for hands-on tasks, and a weight bench supports the body during exercise. Most share the long, functional form.