Stuhl

Stuhl is a German noun that primarily denotes a seat intended for sitting. In everyday usage it refers to a piece of furniture, the English equivalent being chair. In medical or clinical contexts, the same word Stuhl is used for feces, although more specific terms are commonly used in that sense (such as Kot or Stuhlgang).

From Old High German stūl "seat" derived from Proto-Germanic *stōlaz; the sense extends to the modern German noun and to older forms of furniture.

Modern Stühle vary widely in form and function. They typically consist of a seat, supporting legs, and may include a backrest and armrests. Common materials include wood, metal, and plastic, often with upholstery. Distinctions within furniture practice include chairs (with backrest and sometimes arms) and stools (generally without a backrest). Specialized variants include dining chairs, lounge chairs, office chairs, and ergonomic task chairs.

Chairs appeared in ancient civilizations as status symbols; in medieval Europe chairs were often reserved for the nobility or church officials. The Renaissance and early modern periods expanded design possibilities; the Industrial Revolution enabled mass production and standardized sizes. 20th and 21st century design emphasizes ergonomics, lightweight materials, and modular or stackable forms.

Stühle serve domestic, institutional, and public spaces; variations reflect cultural preferences, including seat height, comfort, and aesthetic. In furniture manufacturing and design, the chair is a basic object of study and a common item in retail catalogues.