# davenport

/ˈdævənˌpɔɹt/ (US) · /dˈævənpˌɔːt/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/davenport
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a large, comfortable sofa that can sometimes be turned into a bed. In some places, it also refers to a small, stylish writing desk.

For teachers: a large upholstered sofa, often one that can be converted into a bed; alternatively, a small ornamental writing desk with drawers and a sloping top.

## Examples

- We sat on the davenport to watch the evening news.
- The living room was anchored by a heavy velvet davenport that had been in the family for three generations.
- While the term has largely faded from modern urban parlance, it remains a common regionalism in parts of North America to describe a formal sofa or a convertible davenport bed.

## Usage notes

- The furniture sense varies by region; in the Midwestern United States, it specifically implies a sofa, whereas in British English, it more commonly refers to the desk.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.