table
Definitions
A piece of furniture with a flat top supported by legs.
桌子
A set of facts or figures arranged in rows and columns.
表格，一览表
(BrE) To formally put forward for discussion; (AmE) to postpone discussion of.
（英）提出讨论；（美）搁置（议案）
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedFrom Latin tabula (flat board). A flat surface on legs (the furniture), or information laid out flat in rows and columns (the data table) — same root, both flat.
Root tab still carries 7 more wordsUsage Guide
The verb 'to table' is a famous British/American trap: in British English 'table a motion' means to PUT IT FORWARD for discussion now; in American English it means the opposite — to SET IT ASIDE / postpone. Always check which side of the Atlantic you are on.
Example Sentences
- 1.
We sat around the kitchen table and talked for hours.
- 2.
The results are summarized in the table on page ten.
- 3.
The committee tabled the proposal until next month.