Definition

Noun: 1. A dining table in a dining hall, raised on a platform, where seats are reserved for distinguished persons. This term originates from the traditional layout of university dining halls (particularly at Oxford and Cambridge) and other formal institutions, where the most senior or honored members dine separately at a physically elevated table.

Usage

The term "high table" is used to refer to the specific table and, by extension, the status and privilege associated with sitting there. * The professors and college fellows dined at the high table. * As a guest speaker, she was invited to sit at the high table for the formal dinner. * The tradition of the high table is maintained in many ancient universities.

Advanced Usage

• "To be invited to high table": To be honored with an invitation to dine with the senior members of an institution.
  • His academic achievement earned him an invitation to high table.
• Metaphorical Use: Can be used metaphorically to describe any exclusive or privileged group within an organization.
  • Decisions are ultimately made by the executives at the high table.

Variants and Related Words

• High Table: The term is often capitalized when referring to the specific institution within a college or university.
• Common Table / Low Table: Refers to the regular dining tables for students and other members, in contrast to the high table.

Synonyms

• Head table (Note: "Head table" is more common in general banquet settings, while "high table" carries specific academic/formal institutional connotations.)
• Top table

Antonyms

• Common tables
• General seating

Noun

1. a dining table in a dining-hall raised on a platform; seats are reserved for distinguished persons