seat

Transitive VerbIntransitive Verb[C/U] Both

pl: seatspast: seatedpp: seateding: seatingcomp: nullsup: null

The term carries a strong sense of entitlement or allocation. It is not just about the physical object of a chair, but about the right to occupy a specific space. In a professional or political context, it refers to a position of power or a representative role in a governing body. There is a distinct social weight to the word in formal settings. To be seated is a passive experience of being guided, whereas to take a seat is an active choice. This creates a subtle hierarchy between the person managing the space and the person occupying it.

Countable when referring to an individual chair or a ticketed spot at a concert. Uncountable when referring to the general capacity of a venue to hold people.

Meanings

Noun

[someone][something]

A place to sit, such as a chair or a designated spot on a vehicle.

"I reserved a window seat on the plane."

Transitive Verb

[someone][something]

To provide someone with a place to sit or to settle into a position.

"The hostess will seat you at your table shortly."

Intransitive Verb

[someone]

To sit down or settle into a place.

"Please seat yourself in the waiting area."

Last Updated: May 27, 2026•Report an Error