Definition: A coffee table is an occasional table set in front of a sofa or chairs. It's used for displaying decorative accessories, laying books, or serving drinks or snacks to friends. The top surface of the coffee table is usually the same height as the furniture cushions.
Coffee tables are available round, rectangular, or square. While traditional coffee tables are made of fine wood, they're now made of a wide array of materials including iron, glass, rattan, wicker, steel, or a combination.
Some coffee tables have drawers on each side for storage of books, magazines, games, linens, and other things that need a space.
In recent years, other pieces of furniture are taking the place of a coffee table. A bench, a pair of ottomans with a tray on top, an old trunk with a flat top and glass on top, or an old bench with legs cut to the right height are some options.