couch

A couch is a piece of upholstered seating designed for multiple people to sit and relax, and often lie down. It typically has a padded seat, a back, and one or more arms. Variants include the loveseat (two seats) and the settee (a similar, more formal style). In American English, couch and sofa are often interchangeable; in British usage, sofa is more common, and couch is informal.

Construction and materials vary, but most couches have a rigid frame, usually of kiln-dried hardwood or engineered wood. The seating relies on springs or webbing, with padding of foam and sometimes down. Upholstery fabrics range from durable textiles to leather and synthetic covers. Many models use removable cushion covers; some include built-in features such as sleepers or reclining sections.

History and terminology: The term couch derives from the French coucher, meaning to lie down; sofa traces to Ottoman Turkish or Arabic terms for a long cushioned seating. The modern couch or sofa emerged in the 18th and 19th centuries as domestic furniture emphasized comfort. Today, designs span traditional, mid-century, contemporary, and modular configurations.

Care and use: Proper care extends a couch’s life. Regular cleaning, vacuuming, and rotating cushions reduce wear, while protecting fabrics from sunlight and moisture helps. For sleepers or reclining couches, follow manufacturer instructions to avoid damage. The choice of upholstery should consider environment, traffic, and cleaning needs.