armchair

/ˈɑrmtʃɛr/

/ˈɑmtʃɛə/

Other forms: armchairs

An armchair is a comfortable, cushioned chair with a support on each side, where you can rest your arms while you sit. Some armchairs are big enough that you can curl up and read a book in them.

Armchairs are distinguished by their "arms," rests built to comfortably support your arms. Most armchairs are also upholstered and soft enough for you to sink into a bit when you sit down. The word is also used as an adjective to jokingly describe someone who isn't an expert in something but acts like one: "Those armchair athletes always seem to know what the players and coaches should have done."

Definitions of armchair

1. noun

   chair with a support on each side for arms
   types:

   captain's chair

   a wooden armchair with a saddle seat and a low back that has vertical spindles

   easy chair, lounge chair, overstuffed chair

   a comfortable upholstered armchair

   fauteuil

   an upholstered armchair

   Morris chair

   an armchair with an adjustable back

   lounger, recliner, reclining chair

   an armchair whose back can be lowered and foot can be raised to allow the sitter to recline in it

   wing chair

   easy chair having wings on each side of a high back

   type of:

   chair

   a seat for one person, with a support for the back