sofa

noun

so·​fa ˈsō-fə How to pronounce sofa (audio)
Synonyms of sofanext
: a long upholstered seat usually with arms and a back and often convertible into a bed

Synonyms of sofa

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Examples of sofa in a Sentence

I curled up on the sofa with a book.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The foursome then sit down where President Penn opens a bag of pretzels and squishes the empty bag behind the side of the sofa. — Deadline, 18 Aug. 2026 This modular set includes a spacious sectional sofa, a loveseat, and a matching wood-top coffee table. — Caroline Hughes, Travel + Leisure, 17 Aug. 2026 The entrance opens onto the living room, which contains a sofa and space for a TV and/or some cabinetry to be installed. — New Atlas, 16 Aug. 2026 For an easy finishing touch, toss a dotted floral throw pillow onto your sofa or bed to bring in warmer tones and cozier textures. — Toni Sutton, PEOPLE, 16 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for sofa

Word History

Etymology

earlier, raised carpeted floor, from Italian sofà, from Turkish sofa, from Arabic ṣuffa carpet, divan

First Known Use

1717, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sofa was in 1717

Phrases Containing sofa

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SOF
sofa
sofa bed
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Cite this Entry

“Sofa.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sofa. Accessed 19 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

sofa

noun
so·​fa ˈsō-fə How to pronounce sofa (audio)
: a long upholstered seat usually with arms and a back and often convertible into a bed

More from Merriam-Webster on sofa

Nglish: Translation of sofa for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about sofa

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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