armchair

1 of 2

noun

arm·​chair ˈärm-ˌcher How to pronounce armchair (audio)
Synonyms of armchairnext
: a chair with armrests

armchair

2 of 2

adjective

1
: remote from direct dealing with problems : theoretical rather than practical
armchair strategists
2
: sharing vicariously in another's experiences
an armchair traveler

Examples of armchair in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
That might mean using vintage fabric to patch holes in armchairs or rugs, rather than replacing them altogether. — Hannah Coates, Vogue, 10 Oct. 2026 Designer sisters Ana and Cristina Calderon have created a variation on Pinto Coelho’s theme, with four-posters in neutral hues, bright blankets and cushions, and Gustavian armchairs. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Oct. 2026
Adjective
Over the weekend, the scandal-prone Swiss lender became a trending topic among armchair investors on Twitter and Reddit forums, who speculated that the bank was in trouble. — Margot Patrick, WSJ, 3 Oct. 2022 There is an army of armchair retail traders hell-bent on chasing the entire electric vehicle supply chain. — Moneyshow, Forbes, 19 Mar. 2021 See All Example Sentences for armchair

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1585, in the meaning defined above

Adjective

1809, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of armchair was in 1585

Rhymes for armchair

See All Rhymes for armchair

Browse Nearby Words

arm candy
armchair
armd
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Cite this Entry

“Armchair.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/armchair. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

armchair

noun
arm·​chair
ˈärm-ˌche(ə)r, 
-ˌcha(ə)r;
ˈarm-ˈche(ə)r, 
-ˈcha(ə)r
: a chair with supports for a person's arms

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