bench

long seat / work table / substitute area / judiciary / to sideline

Transitive Verb[C/U] Both

pl: benchespast: benchedpp: bencheding: benching

The word evokes a sense of utility and stability. Whether it is a seat in a public square or a heavy table in a garage, a bench is designed for endurance and function rather than luxury or comfort. It implies a communal or shared space, as seen in its use for public seating or judicial panels.

Countable when referring to the physical furniture or a specific sports seat. Uncountable when referring to the collective judicial body of a court.

Meanings

Nounlong seat

A long seat for several people, typically made of wood or stone.

The park has several wooden benches along the path.

Nounwork table

A sturdy table used by a craftsperson for manual work.

He clamped the board to the workbench.

Nounsubstitute area

The area where substitute players sit during a sports match.

The coach kept the rookie on the bench for the first half.

Nounjudiciary

The collective body of judges in a court of law.

The bench ruled that the evidence was inadmissible.

Transitive Verbto sideline

[~ someone]

To remove a player from a sports game or prevent them from playing.

The manager decided to bench the starting pitcher.

Examples

Sit on the bench.

The bench is cold.

I see a bench.

We sat on a park bench.

He worked at the bench all day.

The players are on the bench.

Let us meet on the school bench.

School Life

The detective noted the blood on the bench.

Detective

I will bench him for the next game.

Health

The bench issued a landmark ruling today.

History

He was benched due to a contract dispute.

Business

The artisan polished his heavy oak bench.

Trivia

Phrasal Verbs

bench out

to remove someone from a position of activity or play

The coach decided to bench out the veteran player to give the rookie a chance.

Last Updated: May 2026•Report an Error

bench

Meanings

Examples

Phrasal Verbs

bench out

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