Definition of chaise longue

The term "chaise longue" originated in French, specifically during the 17th century. The word itself can be broken down into two parts: "chaise," which means chair, and "longue," which means long. This suggests that the chaise longue is a type of chair that is elongated or extended in some way. In its original form, the chaise longue was not a singular piece of furniture but rather a cozy sleeping nook that required multiple pieces, such as a headboard, a fabric or padded bench, and arms that could be added to the chair. This cozy nook, called a lit dans un chaise, could be found in wealthy homes in France during the 17th century. Over time, the chaise longue evolved into a more simplified design, and by the 18th century, it had become a single-piece item that served both a decorative and functional purpose. It was often designed with curved legs and ornate details like carvings or decorative motifs. Nowadays, the chaise longue is commonly recognized as a sedate and luxurious piece of furniture that is often used as a statement piece in a living room, bedroom, or other comfortable space. Its elongated design and comfortable feature still lives up to its name, which captures both the chair's length and the French words for chair and long.