WordGarden.iodeckchair
Pronunciation
UK
- /dˈɛktʃeə/
US
Meanings
Noun
a light folding chair used outdoors for relaxing
Beyond the definition
Imagine a warm summer day, the gentle sound of waves, and… a deckchair. These iconic folding chairs are practically synonymous with seaside relaxation. Originally designed for passengers on ship decks (which is where the name comes from), they've become a symbol of holidays, leisure, and sunny days. You'll often see them lined up on beaches, cruise ships, or even in gardens.
A deckchair isn't just any chair; it's about that relaxed vacation vibe. Think canvas stretched across a wooden frame (often with a few reclining positions), easily folded for transport. While it's strongly linked with the seaside, you might just as easily see one in a garden, ready for a quiet break in the sun.
A deckchair is a folding chair, typically constructed with a wooden or metal frame supporting a canvas or fabric seat. Its name comes from its original purpose: providing seating on the decks of ships. These early versions were essential for passengers to comfortably enjoy their sea voyages.
Over time, the deckchair evolved and became strongly associated with beach culture and leisure. You'll often see rows of brightly colored deckchairs available for rent on beaches around the world, offering a comfortable spot to soak up the sun. Cruise ships still use them a lot, providing passengers with a place to relax by the pool or on open decks.
However, "deckchair" isn't just about physical chairs anymore. The phrase "rearranging the deckchairs on the Titanic" is a well-known idiom meaning to make minor adjustments in a hopeless situation – focusing on trivial details while ignoring a larger impending disaster.
So whether you're picturing a sunny beach, a luxurious cruise, or a metaphor for futile efforts, the word "deckchair" evokes images of relaxation, leisure, and sometimes, a touch of irony. It's more than just a chair; it's a symbol of how we choose to spend our downtime – and perhaps, what we shouldn't be focusing on when bigger problems loom.
Examples
- 1
Beach furniture
We rented two deckchairs and sat by the sea all afternoon.
- 2
Relaxing outdoors
He lay back in a deckchair with a book and a cold drink.
- 3
Folding away
The staff folded the deckchairs away when the rain started.
See also
Similar
- beach chair
- lounge chair
Shades of meaning
- sunlounger
Contrast
- armchair
- dining chair
Used with (collocations)
- folding deckchair
- canvas deckchair
- sit in a deckchair
- deckchair on the beach
Word family
- deckchairs
Explore
- outdoor furniture
- folding chair
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- deckchair