Table Meaning
Table Definition & Usage
A flat surface with legs or a pedestal, typically used for placing items, working, or dining.
Examples
- "The children sat around the table to do their homework."
- "Can you clear the table before we start dinner?"
- "She placed the book on the coffee table."
- "We need a bigger table for the dining room."
- "He sat at the table, deep in thought."
A systematic arrangement of data, usually in rows and columns.
Examples
- "Please enter the data into the table for clarity."
- "The table shows the sales figures for the last quarter."
- "Use the table to compare the different models."
- "She organized the data into a table for easier analysis."
- "This table presents a summary of the project's progress."
To present, propose, or delay something for discussion or action, especially in a meeting.
Examples
- "The committee tabled the motion until next week."
- "We decided to table the issue until we have more information."
- "He tabled the proposal during the board meeting."
- "Let's table this topic for now and revisit it later."
- "The meeting was adjourned after we tabled all pending issues."
A flat, often theoretical, surface in mathematics or geometry.
Examples
- "The problem can be solved by analyzing points on a table."
- "This function operates over the table of data points."
- "The table is the basis for this geometric model."
- "In calculus, we study the properties of surfaces and tables."
- "He calculated the curve's intersection with the table."
Cultural Context
The word 'table' comes from the Old French word 'table' (from Latin 'tabula'), which means a board or plank. The use of tables as surfaces for various purposes is universal across cultures and has evolved from simple wooden structures to modern, more intricate designs used in homes, offices, and laboratories.
The Table of Ideas
Story
The Table of Ideas
A group of young entrepreneurs gathered around a large, gleaming table in the conference room. It was early, and the sunlight filtered through the large windows, casting shadows of their excited faces onto the table's smooth surface. On the table were charts, laptops, and coffee cups scattered about, a testament to the day's brainstorming session. 'We need to table the discussion about the marketing strategy,' said Mark, the team leader, as he looked at his watch. 'We'll focus on the product first.' He could see that Sarah, who had been working on the proposal, was frustrated. 'Are we going to postpone it again?' she asked, her voice tight. 'Yes, but we’ll make sure it’s our top priority next meeting,' Mark replied, offering a reassuring smile. The team shifted their attention to the new product designs. Each member placed their sketches on the table, showing their progress. ‘I think we should include some of these features,’ Sarah said, pointing to one design. Mark nodded and started making notes in the table’s digital document. As they worked, ideas began to flow freely. After several hours, the team paused for a quick break. They sat around the table, sharing a meal and discussing their personal plans. The table had become a hub of creativity and collaboration. It was more than just a piece of furniture; it had witnessed the birth of new ideas and the growth of their dreams. As the day ended, they all agreed on a timeline, but the marketing discussion was once again 'tabled' for next week. In the end, they all left the conference room, confident that they were one step closer to launching their groundbreaking product. Throughout their time at the table, it had served as a central piece of both their physical and intellectual space—a place where decisions were made, ideas were birthed, and sometimes, postponed.
Related Words
