sofa

A sofa is a long upholstered piece of furniture designed for seating two or more people. It typically includes a backrest, arms, and a wooden frame supported by legs. Sofas are a central element of living rooms and lounges, often placed with coffee tables and other seating in a cohesive arrangement.

The word sofa traces its origins to the Arabic suffah, meaning a bench or ledge, and entered English via Turkish and Persian routes. In English, the term appeared in the late 18th or early 19th century as upholstered seating became common in Europe and North America.

Designs vary widely. Common variants include straight sofas, sectionals that form a sectional arrangement, loveseats for two, and sleeper sofas with a pull-out bed. The term chaise longue and divan describe related forms. Materials range from solid-wood or engineered frames to metal supports, with springs or webbing for support, and padding of foam or down. Upholstery fabrics include cotton, linen, wool, synthetic blends, and leather, with finish options such as tufting, piping, and decorative stitching.

In homes, the sofa serves for sitting, socializing, and relaxation; it is also used in offices, lounges, and hospitality settings. Care typically involves regular cleaning, fabric protection or leather maintenance, and avoiding prolonged exposure to sunlight to prevent fading.