Synonyms for Ottoman

Updated 2026-10-12 · Synonyms List editorial team

Quick answer: An ottoman is a versatile piece of furniture, so finding the right synonym depends on the specific context. You might look for a footstool, a storage chest, or a low table. Whether you need a formal term for a design plan or a casual word for a living room item, this list provides options. Each entry includes a nuance and example to guide your choice.

Closest Synonyms for Ottoman

footstool: A simple seat for resting feet, often without a back. He placed his book on the wooden footstool by the sofa.
storage chest: A box-like ottoman used to hide blankets or toys inside. She hid her winter coats in the storage chest near the door.
ottoman bed: A bed frame with a hinged seat that lifts to reveal drawers. The ottoman bed saved space in their small apartment.
bench: A long seat with a flat top, sometimes used like an ottoman. The guests sat on the bench while the host prepared tea.
pouf: A round, soft cushion without a frame, often used as an ottoman. The cat jumped onto the colorful pouf in the center of the room.
hatchback seat: A convertible car seat that folds into a storage bin. They used the hatchback seat as a temporary ottoman for guests.
low table: A small table placed at the foot of a sofa for drinks. She set her coffee on the low table beside her chair.
recliner ottoman: A separate piece that attaches to a recliner chair for leg support. He attached the recliner ottoman to his chair for a nap.
tummy bar: A humorous term for a footrest used while sitting. He stretched out his legs on the tummy bar he made from crates.
resting stool: A small seat intended solely for placing feet upon it. The child placed his feet on the resting stool near the window.
ottoman bench: A long bench with a cushioned top that also serves as storage. They bought an ottoman bench to store shoes under the living room.
cushion box: A box filled with soft padding used as a footrest. The dog curled up on the cushion box in the corner.

Formal Synonyms for Ottoman

footrest: A formal term for a device supporting the feet in a chair. The designer selected a sleek metal footrest for the office.
seat cushion: A pad placed on a chair or ottoman to increase comfort. She added a velvet seat cushion to the hard wooden ottoman.
console table: A low table used for holding decorative items or drinks. The console table stood against the wall like a large ottoman.
dressing table: A table used for grooming, sometimes low like an ottoman. She sat before the dressing table to apply her makeup.
writing desk: A surface for work, occasionally low and ottoman-like. He wrote his letter at the writing desk in the study.
coffee table: A low table in a living room for drinks and magazines. The guests placed their books on the coffee table.
side table: A small table next to a sofa, similar to a side ottoman. He put his lamp on the side table beside the bed.
dining table: A large table for eating, though sometimes low in style. The family gathered around the dining table for dinner.
nightstand: A small table by a bed, sometimes resembling a low ottoman. She placed her alarm clock on the nightstand.
display shelf: A surface for showing items, sometimes low and ottoman-shaped. The display shelf held the new pottery in the shop.

Informal Synonyms for Ottoman

tub: A large container used as a seat or footrest. They sat inside the bathtub while taking a warm bath.
box: A generic container that might serve as a footrest. He sat on the cardboard box in the corner of the room.
pile: A heap of pillows or blankets used as a seat. The kids built a pile of cushions to sit on the floor.
heap: A messy collection of items used for sitting. She sat on the heap of clothes in the laundry basket.
mound: A raised shape of soft material used as a seat. He rested his feet on the mound of pillows in the living room.
lump: A soft mass of material used for resting. She sat on the lump of fabric near the sofa.
stack: A pile of books or boxes used as a footrest. He placed his feet on the stack of magazines on the floor.
heap of cushions: A collection of soft pads used for sitting. They sat on the heap of cushions in the sunroom.
pile of blankets: A soft layer of covers used as a seat. She lay on the pile of blankets near the fireplace.
heap of pillows: A soft arrangement of cushions for resting. He sat on the heap of pillows in the guest room.

Stronger and Weaker Words

rest: weaker, implies temporary support
low seat: neutral, describes function without style
pedestal: weaker, often used for statues or lamps
tambour: stronger, refers specifically to a folding ottoman
divan: stronger, suggests a larger upholstered piece
throne: stronger, implies royal or luxurious stature
cushion: weaker, refers only to the soft part
footboard: weaker, part of a bed, sometimes confused with ottoman
ottomabed: stronger, specific term for a bed with storage underneath

Antonyms for Ottoman

ceiling
wall
roof
high chair
tower
spire
chimney
ladder
steeple
skyscraper

How to Pick the Right Synonym

Choose a synonym based on the primary function of the ottoman in your sentence. If it holds storage, use terms like storage chest or box. If it supports feet, use footstool or footrest. For soft, round items, pouf or cushion work best. Match the formality of your writing to the tone of the synonym you select.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between an ottoman and a footstool?

An ottoman often has a top you can lift for storage, while a footstool is usually just a flat surface for your feet without hidden space inside the piece.

Can an ottoman be used as a chair?

Yes, many ottomans have a padded top that allows people to sit on them, though they are not designed with backs like regular chairs are meant to be.

How do I clean an ottoman?

Vacuum the surface regularly to remove dust and crumbs. For fabric ottomans, use a gentle stain remover, and wipe leather ones with a damp cloth to keep them looking new.