seat

A seat is a piece of furniture designed for sitting, typically featuring a surface for the body and a supporting structure such as legs, a frame, and often a backrest or armrests. Seats are produced in many forms for individual use or group seating and can be stationary or portable. The term seat also denotes a position occupied by a person or organization, such as a seat in a legislative body or the seat of power.

Common types include chairs, stools, benches, and specialized seats such as car seats and airplane seats. Design considerations cover height, depth, back support, padding, and materials, with ergonomics addressing how seat dimensions affect posture and comfort. Vehicle seating frequently incorporates safety features like seat belts and airbags, and child car seats provide restraints appropriate to a rider’s size.

In politics and administration, a seat refers to a position in a deliberative body or council, representing a geographic or functional constituency. Elections determine who holds seats, and terms of office or procedural rules govern how seats are allocated, filled, or redistributed.

In religious and institutional contexts, a seat can signify the chair or throne associated with authority, such as a bishop’s seat or the Holy See. The phrase “seat of government” or “seat of power” describes the location or institution where governing authority is exercised, while a seating arrangement can denote preferred or honored placement at events.

Other uses include the act of seating someone, meaning to place a person in a chair or designated position, and the general concept of seating plans for gatherings, venues, or transportation.