Definition

Noun: A low stool or support designed for a seated person to rest their feet upon, often used to increase comfort.

Usage

A footstool is a piece of furniture, typically placed in front of a chair, sofa, or armchair. Its primary function is to provide a raised surface for a person's feet while sitting, promoting relaxation and better posture.

Examples

• She put her feet up on the footstool while reading her book.
• The comfortable armchair came with a matching leather footstool.
• He used a small wooden footstool to reach the top shelf.

Advanced Usage

• "God's footstool" / "footstool of the Almighty": A poetic or religious metaphor, often found in biblical or literary contexts, referring to the Earth or a humble place under divine dominion.
  • Example: "Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool."

Variants and Related Words

• Ottoman: A type of upholstered footstool or low seat, often used as a footrest but can also function as extra seating or a coffee table.
• Hassock: A thick, firm cushion used as a footstool or for kneeling.

Synonyms

• Footrest
• Ottoman
• Hassock

Idioms

• To be under someone's footstool: An archaic or literary expression meaning to be in a position of complete subjugation or humility before someone.
  • Example (literary): "He wished to bring his enemies under his footstool."

Noun

1. a low seat or a stool to rest the feet of a seated person