Office Furniture Terminology & Glossary

360-Degree Swivel - A feature on a chair that allows a user to turn in any direction for total freedom of movement.

Acoustical Panel - A systems furniture panel with acoustical properties that absorbs sound within the panel structure, providing a higher STC (Sound Transmission Class) rating for the overall workspace. Used to reduce noise and control sound in many different spaces.
Adjacency Requirements - This is programming information that is essential when beginning a space design and involves determining the most functional proximity of various personnel groups and equipment areas in a work environment.
Adjustable Arms - Refers to the adjustability of chair arm rest, typically on a task chair. They can be height adjustable (vertical), width adjustable (height), rotating and/or have a sliding arm pad. The ability to move the arms of an office chair up and down or back (vertical) or side to side (Width) for maximum comfort and workability.
Adjustable Glides - Alternately referred to as “levelers” these are located on the base of furniture to help level it on uneven flooring.
Adjustable Height Arms - Arms on an office chair that move up and down at the touch of a button to fit various work surface heights and body types.
Adjustable Lumbar Support - Additional lower back support on a chair that the user can move to put a little extra pressure wherever it’s needed to achieve the proper posture.
Adjustable Width Arms - Arms on an office chair that move in and out at the touch of a button to support different preferences and postures.
All Adjustable Arms - Arms on an office chair that move in every direction to put the support wherever it’s desired.
ANSI - American National Standards Institute. ANSI/BIFMA Safety and performance standards are developed by the BIFMA (see below) Engineering Committee. The standards are reviewed every five years and intended to provide manufacturers with a common basis for evaluating safety, durability, and the structural adequacy of furniture items.
Anti-Rebound - This feature ensures that a drawer will stay closed and not spontaneously open or recoil when it is closed with normal force.
Arch Handle - A rounded handle style on drawers that gently curves outward from the surface.
Area Takeoff - The tabulation of area in square feet or yardage, this information is used to qualify spaces in planning and budgeting efforts. Used to plan office layouts typically in increments of square feet or yardage.
Asynchronous Control - This multi-faceted tilt control system allows the back to pivot independently from the seat and locks the back in any position to give users the broadest possible range of postures, from full recline to perch. A mechanism responsible for simultaneous but independent movement associated with a chair’s seat and backrest
AutoCAD - The computer program used by most architecture and interior design industry professionals to generate drawings. Software used to create floor plans.

B/B/F Pedestal - Abbreviation for Box/Box/File Pedestal. The word pedestal (or commonly referred to as a "ped") is a filing unit, typically about 15" wide and located under a work-surface top. A "box" drawer is a 6" high drawer used for smaller items, such as pencils and calculators. The "file" drawer is about 12" high and is a standard hanging file compartment. A filing unit located under a work surface top; a “box” refers to a top drawers used to store stationary and smaller objects, while the “file” drawer is a standard hanging file compartment.
Back Height Adjustment - The chair back moves up and down to fit a variety of users and position the lumbar support in the most comfortable location.
Back Pitch - Refers to the angle of a chairs back in relation to the seat.
Bariatric Lounge - A reinforced metal frame increases the strength of a lounge chair to allow it to support users up to 450 lbs.
Base Cap - A solid cap that fits over part of a metal base.
Base Power Infeed - The power source connection from the buildings electrical current to the systems furniture panel.
Beltway Power - In systems furniture, refers to a horizontal strip above work surface height that allows for power and data capability and access. The standard location for most systems is at the base of the panel.
BIFMA - Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturers Association.
Block Diagram - Created in the programming phase, this rough diagram shows space allocation in correct proportion of each department and their proposed locations within the space. A diagram that shows placement of office furniture layout and office design – typically generated by software such as AutoCAD.
Boat Shaped Table Top - A rectangular shaped table top design that, in plain view has 2 short sides that are flat and 2 long sides that are bowed outward in a convex shape so as to allow for better person to person vision around a long conference table.
Book Match/Matching - Sheets of laminate or veneer are laid so that the back of one sheet is matched to the face of an adjacent sheet, like facing pages in a book. Creates a mirrored grain pattern; veneer or laminate sheets are put together so that the back of one sheet is connected to the face of another sheet.
Bookcase Hutch - Add a bookcase to the top of an existing work surface or file to organize a literature collection or showcase personal items.
Bow Front Work Surface - The curved front side of the work surface gives visitors and collaborators a little extra workspace
Box Drawer - A 6” high drawer as part of a BBF pedestal
Bridge - The work surface that connects a desk and credenza, so as to form a U-shaped configuration around the user. The piece that connects the desk and credenza in a “U” shaped desk set.
Bridge Kit - A work surface and panel back that connects desks and/or credenzas to create U-shaped workstations.
Bullet Shaped Work Surface - With a half-round end supported by a pedestal leg, this work surface is ideal for small meetings or teaming stations.
Bullet Top - Used in place of a standard desk in “L” or “U” configurations, a bullet top is essentially a work surface that gets its name from its shape. Viewed from above, it has a round circular shape at the end which is typically supported by a post or leg. Can replace the “L” or “U” – named after its shape (looks like a bullet from certain viewpoints).

C-Leg - A support leg that allows knee clearance for the user underneath the work surface. Type of leg that holds up a desk and offers additional leg and knee room.
Cable Trough - Neatly collects and routes electrical and data cords through a workstation environment.
Café Height - Typically between 40” and 42” high, these work surfaces and seating solutions can be also used a standing-height environment.
Cantilever Table - With a C-shaped base, this table shape can slide under a side or lounge chair to neatly nest and save space.
Carpet Gripper - Feet that can be added to office furniture, especially vertical storage towers, to help keep the unit in place on a carpeted surface.
Casegoods - Refers to freestanding wood office furniture. Storage that provides compartments and drawers files and other supplies, and includes wardrobes, hutches and more. Typically includes bookcases, desks, credenzas, and computer furniture; usually has wood veneer or laminate construction.
Caster – Small wheels attached to the bottom of chairs, tables and pedestals that allow the furniture to be easily moved.
Center Tilt - This basic control mechanism on a chair that allows anyone to comfortably recline, using the center of the seat as the pivot point.
Chassis – the body of a desk.
Clamp Mount - Installs an accessory such as a monitor arm onto a work surface by gripping the edge of the work surface.
Club Chair - Typically covered in leather or plush upholstery, this comfortable armchair seats a single user and is often used in lounge settings.
Cluster – cubicle system grouped together to create a two way workstation; can come in a solo unit or can be built as a grouping; also, are customizable to fit the space of the office
Coffee Table - This style of low, long table is designed to accompany casual seating and provide a place for literature, beverages and other items.
COL - Abbreviation for "Customer's Own Leather." Term used in a furniture specification when an item is being upholstered with leather from a source other than the manufacturer of the furniture.
COM - Abbreviation for "Customer's Own Material." Term used in a furniture specification when an item is being upholstered with fabric from a source other than the manufacturer of the furniture.
Contract Furniture - Furniture obtained by contract through dealers or manufacturers and generally developed for commercial use to meet the safety regulations and rigors of a public environment.
Corner Blocks – used to strengthen chair frames; typically consists of wood.
Corner Table - This style of low table is designed to fit at a 90-degree angle between casual seating arrangements and provide a place for literature, beverages and other items.
Counterweight - A weight inserted into storage units with drawers that provides balance and stability when drawers are open. Smalls weights in the base of a tall file cabinet that keep it from tipping over when a loaded drawer is open.
CPU Holder - An accessory piece attached to the underside of a work surface to hold a computer's CPU and assist in wire management.
Credenza - In a private office setting, it is a work surface/storage unit located behind the user and in a conference room it can be used for serving as well as provide additional storage. Similar to a desk, this closed cabinet provides storage for papers, office supplies, etc., and typically matches the height of the desk and surrounding furniture in a workspace. Low sideboard cabinets that offer a good amount of storage space – ideal for an executive or home office.
Cube Table - A table enclosed on all sides that has a square top, with a height that is equal to each side.
Cylinder Table - A table enclosed on all sides that has a round top, with a height that is equal to the diameter of the top.

Data Grommet - Fitting flush into a cutout hole in a work surface, this grommet brings Ethernet cables or other data connections directly to the desktop.
Defeat Mechanism - The mechanism that helps prevent a file cabinet from accidentally tipping over. Used to help prevent a file cabinet from toppling over.
Density - A term referring to the weight of a cubic foot of foam. When specifying seating, the greater the density, the more material in the foam and the more durable the product. Refers to the weight of a cubic foot of foam used in office chairs that can range from 1.0 lbs. to 3.0 lbs. 3.0 lbs foam density is rated as the standard for best quality.
Desk Divider - Affixed to work surfaces in open areas and groups of workstations, these solid material panels above the desk help define and divide personal space.
Desk Shell - A desk that includes support legs and work surface, but no storage drawers.
Desktop Paper Shelf - A shelf or tray that allows users to neatly stack and organize paperwork on a desktop.
Desktop Storage Terrace - A layered shelf that sits on top of a work surface with a variety of cubbies and tray sizes, allowing for greater organization of paperwork.
Direct Pressure Laminate - A sheet of melamine bonded to particle board. It is much less durable than high-pressure laminate.
Double Pedestal Desk - A desk configuration that consists of left and right pedestal files and knee space in the center for the user. A desk with space for the user’s legs in the middle, and a storage pedestal on each side for greater organization. Often comes with two personal storage units.
Dovetail - A method of joining two pieces of wood utilizing a flaring triangular shape that fits perfectly into a corresponding negative shape forming an interlocking fit. Joint commonly used to join the sides of a drawer to the front.
Dowel - A small rounded piece of wood usually made of birch or maple, used for making or strengthening joints. A technique used for creating or strengthening joints; typical dovetails are round, small, and made of wood.
Drawer Configuration – the pattern or layout of drawers within a pedestal often seen as box/box/file (BBF) or file/file (FF).
Drum Base - A large cylindrical base used to support a table or work surface.
Duplex Outlet - A standard electrical outlet with 2 receptacles.

Empire Handle - A flat, rectangular handle on drawers that runs horizontally.
End Panel - A support panel that runs the entire depth of a freestanding work surface and does not allow for knee clearance for the user. An enclosed metal or laminate panel that can be added to support a work surface that does not have a modular pedestal. Found on the end of each desk. Vertical panel that helps support the desk.
End Table - A low table designed to anchor the end of a run of guest chairs or lounge seating and provide a place for literature, beverages and more.
End Trim - On a system furniture panel, it refers to the finished vertical end cap.
Ergonomic - Furniture designed to provide optimal comfort and to avoid stress or injury. Usually in reference to an office chair; designed to cradle the body for comfort and reduced stress & injury. Also referred to as human factors, is the science of fitting the tools and equipment of the workplace to the worker.
Executive Chair - A typically full-featured mid-back or high-back padded desk chair that offers high-end comfort and adjustable controls, ideal for private office settings.
Extron Plate - Inserted into a work surface pop-up port, it provides a variety of configurations, including data, VGA, HDMI, USB, audio and more.

F/F Pedestal - Abbreviation for File/File Pedestal. The word pedestal (or commonly referred to as a "ped") is a filing unit, typically about 15" wide and located under a work surface top. This unit houses 2 standard filing drawers.
Face Veneer - The veneer on the most visible surfaces.
Fiberboard – also known as an “MDF” – a board consisting of fibers of wood bonded together with synthetic resins.
File Center - Combining a variety of storage elements into one unit, it provides an all-in-one storage solution.
Fire Retardant – special chemicals added to fabric allowing them to be resistant to burning.
Fixed Chair Arms - Arms on a chair that do not move or adjust in any way.
Fixed Chair Base - A base on a chair that does not feature casters, and is designed to stay in position.
Flip-Top Base - A table base designed to turn the work surface 90-degrees to nest with other tables that have the work surface in the vertical position.
Flipper Door - Refers to the door on an overhead storage unit in a workstation. These doors are typically hinged at the top and lift up either on top of or into the storage unit.
Floor Core - The process of coring through the slab of a floor to bring power and tele/data capability to a room or area. A hole drilled in the floor of the office space to help the flow of wires create an internet hub or power grid to the room.
Foot Ring - A fixed or adjustable bar on the bottom section of a stool that provides leg support.
Freestanding - Refers to furniture not supported by systems furniture panels.
Freestanding Privacy Screen - A mobile or fixed vertical screen, typically covered in fabric or glass, designed to provide visual privacy and divide space in open areas.
Full-Pedestals – pedestals that extend to the floor below the desk and support the work surfaces
Furniture Plan - The furniture plan locates and identifies the new and existing furniture in the proposed floorplan. Layout by a designer that shows where pieces will go. When designing an office layout, CAD is the program frequently used by architects, interior designers, and office managers.

Ganging Bracket - A bracket placed on guest seating and tables that can be used to connect them together to form perfect rows and keep chairs in place.
Glides - Refers to the small, adjustable feet on a large piece of furniture or systems furniture panel in order to make it level. Can also refer to the finished ends of a chair leg that protects the floor as well as the chair leg itself. Made of a variety of materials designed to move smoothly over hard surfaces, glides can be added to table or chair feet to protect flooring and make movement easier.
Graining – a natural wood grain pattern printed onto another surface
Grommet - A finished hole in a work surface or other surface to allow for the passage of wires. Used when wires or cords need to pass thru for electrical access, a grommet will reinforce the hole. A plastic covering built into an open space in a desk that can be used to neatly store wires and power cords
Grommet Mount - A power and/or data outlet that fits into an existing grommet hole on a work surface.
Guest Chair - A smaller, single-seat chair designed for short-term use and often placed in open areas, waiting rooms and private offices.

Hanging Paper Shelf - An open shelf that attaches to the underside of a cabinet or work surface to organize paperwork.
Hard Caster - Wheels on an office chair that are designed for softer surfaces such as carpet.
Hardboard - A stiff board made of compressed and treated wood pulp, used on cabinet backs and other furniture elements.
Hardwood – mahogany, oak, birch, walnut and other deciduous species of trees are hardwoods. Hardwood desks have distinctive definition on grain patterns which make them desirable
High Density Stacker - This lightweight guest chair made of high-density materials that moves easily for quick rearrangement and stacks on top of other chairs in the same collection to save space.
High Pressure Laminate - A laminate composed of six to eight layers of building material that have been bonded with resin then topped with a melamine plastic facing. Often high pressure laminates are used in office furniture to add durability to a piece of furniture without sacrificing its appearance. Used to add durability to office furniture while keeping up with the cosmetic appearance. It is created by taking layers of phenolic resin induced with kraft paper and then overlaid with a solid color paper or wood grain and capped with a plastic sheet. Once compressed together, it is then attached to a substrate material.
High-Back Chair - Typically found in private offices, meeting spaces and workstations, these task and executive chairs are designed to offer support to a greater variety of users.
Hip Chair - A stool with fixed arms and a footring, often used in healthcare areas.
Hospitality Shelf - A sliding shelf that can be added to the bottom of a storage cabinet to allow for easy access and removal of trash.
Hutch - A storage cabinet that can be added onto the work surface of an office component such as a desk or credenza to add storage without sacrificing floor space.

Independent Back Angle - A feature of task chairs that moves the back separately from the seat to reduce lumbar pressure.
Inside Delivery - A special request to have the furniture delivered inside the customers facility. Customer specifications to have casegoods delivered and placed into the office premises with no installation required.
Interlock - A device used to lock two or more drawers together that allows only one drawer to be open at a time to preventing tipping. A mechanism that locks two or more drawers at the same time while still allowing a single drawer to be opened. This device is used to help prevent a cabinet from toppling over.

Keyboard Tray - A unit that attaches to the underside of a work surface to hold a keyboard. Various models are available to allow for user-specific adjustability and assist in the prevention of carpel tunnel syndrome. Found underneath a desk, it is used to hold the keyboard; helps create a clean-look work space.
Knee Tilt Control – device that controls the vertical movement of a office chair
Knockouts - In the base of the systems furniture panel, refers to the hole provided for an electrical or data outlet. A hole at the base panel of office furniture used as a portal for data or electrical outlets.

L-Post - The corner connector used when two panels meet at a 90 degree angle. Also referred to as a 2 way connector. A corner connector for a desk that looks like the letter “L.”
Laminate - A material formed by fusing two separate materials together. The term laminate can be used to describe both high pressure laminate and direct pressure laminate. Two separate materials forged together (High pressure laminate and Direct pressure Laminate)
Laminate Credenza Shelf - A fixed or adjustable shelf with a durable laminate exterior that creates storage space in a credenza.
Lateral File - A filing cabinet that is wider than is deep to allow for side to side filing, typically come in widths of 30”, 36” and 42”. A great choice for smaller offices because they take up little space, lateral files typically allow for side-to-side or front-to-back paper filing and can range from units that fit under a desk to large files that divide a space.
Lead Time - The amount of time needed for production and delivery of a piece of furniture after order entry. Refers to how long it will take to fulfill an order.
LED Task Light - A corded desktop lamp that allows workers to add light to their immediate and personal workspace.
Load Bar - A bar mounted either to a wall or to a systems furniture panel to which accessories are mounted.
Loop Chair Arms - Fixed arms on an office chair that have a circular shape and typically a slightly rounded arm top.
Loop Handle - A rounded handle style on drawers that gently curves outward from the surface.
Love Seat - A lounge seat made for two users, typically featuring plush foam cushioning.
Low Credenza - A storage credenza that sits on the floor and is much lower height than the desks or other furniture elements, usually with a variety of storage spaces and drawer types.
Low-Back Chair - An office chair designed for lighter and more short-term use, with a back height that hits most users in the middle of their spine for lower back support.
Lumbar Support - A standard available option on a good quality task chair that provides support for the lower back. This feature in the lower part of the chair back delivers extra pressure to the user’s lower back, helping maintain the natural curve of the spine and reducing back pain. Support that helps the back by building additional padding into the back of a chair; refers to additional support given to the lumbar region of the body which is pertaining to the area of the lower spine.

Mechanism – system that is used to adjust, tilt, and swivel an office chair.
Melamine - A plastic resin used to coat direct pressure laminate, and used between the layers of high density laminate. Melamine may also refer to direct pressure laminate, which is less durable of the two laminates available for office furniture. When combined with formaldehyde it becomes a very durable thermosetting plastic used in high pressure decorative laminates.
Mesh Back - A breathable material on a chair that stretches to offer instant support and comfort to any user, while keeping them cool.
Mid-Range Knee Tilt - This advanced chair control pivots the seat from close to the knees, allowing users to keep their feet on the floor while reclining.
Millwork - Built in counters, shelving, cabinetry, wall or ceiling paneling, moldings etc. usually fabricated off site. Fabrication of office furniture.
Mobile Markerboard - A two-sided white board on four casters that can be easily moved around a space to take notes or present ideas.
Mobile Pedestal - A small storage unit that has casters to allow for mobility. Typically used for files and/or personal storage. Most can be ordered with a cushion on top to allow for informal seating. A storage pedestal on casters with file or supply drawers, which can be easily moved around a workspace.
Modesty Panel - A laminate, metal or frosted glass panel that attaches to the bottom of a desk to provide extra privacy below the work surface. Provides privacy and improves overall strength of the office structure; a sheet of material attached underneath to the front of the desk; panel that can go all the way to the floor and helps to hide the kneehole.
Modular Chair - A chair designed to work great as a standalone seating solution, or as part of a larger grouping of similar chairs, as typically found in lounge settings.
Monitor Arm - A metal arm that replaces the standard base supplied with monitors, which affixes to the desk and to a flat screen panel to provide easier adjustment of screen, reducing back, neck and eye strain.
Moulding – a defining, transitional, or terminal element that contours or outlines the edges and surfaces on a projection or cavity, such as a cornice, architrave, capital, arch, base, or jamb
Move Coordination - Optional services which include scheduling of contractors, moving and delivering crews, and installers to assist the owner of occupying space. Service to install office furniture; includes logistic of office furniture, scheduling of contractors, and time applicable for set up crew.
Multi-Task Control - An advanced seat control on a chair that adjusts the reclining angles of the seat and back independently, and allows the user to lock the back in virtually any position.

Nesting Chair - A side or guest chair with a seat that flips up vertically, which allows it to be pushed closely against other chairs in that collection to save space, similar to a line of grocery carts.
Nesting Table – A table that flips up vertically, which allows it to be pushed closely against other tables in that collection to save space, similar to a line of grocery carts.

Off Modular - The ability for systems furniture components to join into a perpendicular panel at any increment, rather than the ends of the panel only.
Open Office Plan – Typically in the center of the office layout to create a work environment that is conducive to creativity and allows employees to easily engage in work conversations
Open Plan - Partitions put together usually in the center of an office space to create an open working environment. Typically it does not have a door or a ceiling.
Ottoman - A comfortable, cushion topped lounge element that can be used to put up your feet or as a short-term seating solution.
Overfile - A storage unit that sits atop a 4 or 5 drawer file.
Overhang - Produced by recessing the modesty panel when the work surface hangs over the modesty panel. Overhangs vary from 6″ to 11″ and allow the visitor to position a chair close to the desk.
Overhead Cabinet – a wide cabinet either single or double above the workstation used for extra storage; front panel usually slides up and back for easy access to storage and lights are affixed below this cabinet
Overhead Legs - Post legs or O-legs designed to support overhead storage, similar to those found on desks and work surfaces.
Overhead Storage - Storage cabinets that stack onto existing desks or credenzas that add valuable open or closed storage space without taking up any additional real estate.

Panel Creep - When planning multiple workstation clusters for a space, it is the dimension of a panel's thickness multiplied by how many times it occurs over the length of the space.
Panel Mount - The ability to mount and hang storage units, work surfaces and accessories to a systems furniture panel.
Particle Board - A heavy-duty composite material used to give work surfaces and other laminate office furniture strength and durability. Material made in rigid sheets or panels from compressed wood chips and resin, often coated or veneered, and used in furniture and buildings.
Pedestal - A storage cabinet with drawers that also acts as a support for an office desk or credenza, usually with file or supply drawers. Also referred to as a "ped," is a filing unit, typically about 15" wide and located under a work surface top. Can be fixed or mobile and can have different storage configurations.
Peninsula Shaped Top - A work surface with one rectangular end that connects to a panel support and one rounded end that sits atop a single post leg. Also called a Peninsula top or P-top, it is a primary work surface designed with one rounded end to provide a comfortable meeting space for multiple users to gather around.
Pivot Arms - Adjustable chair arms that each turn at up to 30-degree angles to move wherever the user prefers the support.
Plan View - An aerial view of a space, room or piece of furniture, cutting a horizontal section at 5'-0" above the floor line.
Pneumatic Height Adjustment - On a task chair, allows different size users to adjust the seat height. Gas cylinder powered mechanism allowing the user to adjust seat height. Adjustment that allows users to move the chair seat up and down with the touch of a button through the aid of a gas cylinder.
Polyester – Polymers that can be used to make plastics or fibers.
Polyurethane Foam – Polymer composed of organic units joined by carbamate links – used in the manufacture of high-resilience foam seating.
Pop-up Port - Electrical and/or data outlet that mounts flush into a work surface, and opens when pushed to make ports available.
Post Leg Base - Individual vertical legs that can be used to support a variety of work surfaces.
Posture Control - Allows the back rest to tilt independently of the seat, allowing adjustments in back patch. Any mechanism on an office chair that allows the user to customize settings to fit their body or preferred posture and comfort. Allows the backrest to tilt independently of the seat, allowing for adjustments in back patch.
Posture Mechanism/Lock - A feature in office chairs that allows the user to prevent the chair from reclining whenever the user prefers firmer back support and an upright position.
Power Infeed - The electrical connection used to provide systems furniture with the building's power source.
Power Pole - A floor to ceiling pole, similar to a small column bringing power to a telephone/data wiring to a workstation pod, in lieu of a floor feed. A floor to ceiling pole that has the capacity to house electrical or data communication lines that are then used to power workstations
Power Whip - Industry slang for a power source that connects the buildings electricity to the systems furniture or cubicle. A Base Power Infeed – or base feed module – type of cable that converts a fixed-in-place device to a modular asset. This is an external factory application designed to be installed on the outside of a raceway cover or kickplate. A Ceiling Infeed – or base feed module – type of cable that converts a fixed-in-place device to a modular asset. This is an internal factory application designed to be installed on the inside of a raceway cavity.
Presentation Cart - A mobile cart that can be rolled throughout a work environment, and typically holds a flat screen display, whiteboard or other presentation tools.
Privacy Panel – An office partition used to create a private workspace and for noise reduction.
Programming - The initial stage of a project in which spatial requirements are determined considering numbers and classifications of personnel, size and departments, anticipated future expansions or reductions, and required adjacencies.
Punch List - The list that is generated after the project’s completion to indicate any items that are missing or damaged. Applies to architecture as well as to furniture. List used to keep track of damaged or missing pieces of office furniture especially during the process of an office space delivery/install.
PVC - Polyvinyl Chloride. Used to finish the edgebanding of a work surface.

Quadradplex Outlet - Also known as a quad, it is an electrical outlet with 4 receptacles. An electrical outlet with 4 receptacles -sometimes called a quad.
Quick Ship - A program offered by most furniture manufacturers making some of their most popular or easily manufactured products available with accelerated lead times.

Raceway - The channel provided within a systems furniture panel to run electrical wiring and telephone cabling to the outlets. Enclosed conduit that forms a pathway for electrical wiring and cables; helps protect wires from outside interference.
Radius Styling - The rounded edge on the tops of desks and credenzas.
Reception Station - A large workstation at the front of an office with a variety of storage options, a standing-height work surface for visitors, and typically in a configuration that wraps around the receptionist.
Recessed Task Light - A lighting unit that can be mounted onto the underside of a hutch or wall-mount storage cabinet to add light to a work area without taking up work surface space.
Remanufactured Furniture - The reuse of core components in a workstation that can be returned to a new condition with OEM warranties and safety assurances renewed as well.
Return - A work surface with one finished side, a pedestal file and a modesty panel that attaches to a single pedestal desk or credenza to create an L-shaped workstation. The side work surface stemming from the users primary work surface creating an L-shape in plan.
Return Shell - A work surface with one finished side and a modesty panel that attaches to a single pedestal desk or credenza to create an L-shaped workstation. A modular pedestal file can be added for more storage.
Rounded Square Handle - A rounded, rectangular handle on drawers that runs horizontally.
Routing – to mill a metal or wood surface.
RTA (Ready-To-Assemble) – less expensive than pre-made furniture, the buyer is responsible for putting together the casegoods upon arrival.

Schematic Plan - A preliminary space plan showing the proposed form and location of the primary components of the space. It provides, in plan view, a graphic depiction of the architectural elements, the furniture, and their interrelationship.
Seat Depth Adjustment - An adjustment on office chairs that allows the user to move the chair back forward or backward to create a deeper or shallower seat cushion.
Seat Glide Mechanism - An adjustment on office chairs that allows the user to move the entire seat cushion forward or backward to fit their personal preferences.
Seat Tilt Tension - A mechanical feature on the front of an office chair that adjusts the amount of resistance the chair provides when reclining, usually controlled by a knob.
Sheen Level – glossiness of a paint finish
Side Tilt Tension - A mechanical feature on the side of an office chair that adjusts the amount of resistance the chair provides when reclining, usually controlled by a knob.
Skins - The easy to remove portions of a systems furniture panel that allow for different kinds of surfaces from markerboard to upholstered tack board. The upholstered portion of a systems furniture panel. Easy to remove and re-upholster to provide an updated look or replace damaged product.
Sled Base - A chair base with U-shaped legs that run along the floor to allow users to easily push them on hard or soft surfaces.
Sliding Seat Pan - An option on many task chairs that allows the seat to move from front to back in order to accommodate different leg lengths. Mechanism on a chair used to move the seat from front to back.
Soft Caster - Wheels on office chairs that are designed for hard surfaces, such as hardwood or tile floors or hard plastic mats.
Soft Wedge Table Top - Casual table top shapes with a 45-degree top, allowing for arrangements that make turns and weave around architectural elements.
Space Plan - Is a preliminary layout which graphically illustrates basic needs, future growth and adjacencies as defined by the project statement. It is drawn as if the building were “sliced” horizontally, the room and ceiling removed and view above. It indicates placement of walls and type of construction, wall penetrations (doors, windows) defined exit ways, circulation within the area being planned support areas (such as file rooms, libraries, raised floor computer areas, etc) along with their relationship to existing building elements. Furniture and equipment layouts will provide an understanding of the general use of the spaces being presented.
Specifications - The ordering information for a piece of furniture. Typically includes the manufacturer's item number, color, finish, size and any other options specific to the piece.
Spine - The common center panel running down the middle of a workstation pod that all perpendicular panels connect into.
Spine Lift – Allows for the chair to raise or lower by spinning the chair counter; turn clockwise to lower and counter-clockwise to raise
Stackable – office furniture partitions that can be stacked to create additional privacy and acoustical value — also used in reference to a style of chair that can be stacked and stowed to create additional space when not in use
Stacked Paper Management - An organizational tool that can be added to cabinets and other storage compartments to allow for piling of paperwork and segmentation of open storage areas.
Stadium - A tiered platform that can be added to a work surface or file cabinet to create more open shelves for filing of paperwork and office supplies.
Stanchions - The support column on a work surface used to upmount overheads.
Storage Cabinet Pedestal - A mobile or modular storage unit that can be added to a workstation to offer two or three drawers for files or office supplies.
Storage Credenza – Also known as a closed or door credenza. Credenza doors are found in between the two pedestals. Can be hinged or sliding doors.
Storage Tower - A versatile, vertical storage unit that includes a full height door for storing coats, as well as smaller drawers and open cabinets for paperwork, office supplies and personal items.
Straight Arms - Fixed arms on an office chair, usually a guest or side chair, that do not curve or bend in any way.
Support Column - A single straight leg that can be used to support peninsula desks or other work surfaces.
Surface Abrasion – Wear and tear levels of a surface.
Synchro-Tilt - A control mechanism in a desk chair that allows the user to recline the back while keeping the seat parallel to the floor, which encourages proper back alignment and increases circulation.
Synchronized Knee Tilt - A control mechanism in a desk chair that keeps the front edge of the seat closer to the floor when reclining for a more natural posture and comfortable position.

T-Leg Base - A table base that is shaped like an upside down T to create a solid foundation.
T-Post - The connector used when three panels meet at an intersection, forming a "T." Also referred to as a 3-way connector.
Tablet Arm - A small work surface that attaches to an arm of a lounge chair or side chair to provide a place for a laptop or note-taking.
Tack Board - A fabric covered tackable surface generally mounted to the panel or wall between the top of a work surface and the bottom of an overhead cabinet.
Tackable Panel - A systems furniture panel with a built in tackable surface.
Tackboard - A fabric covered tackable surface generally mounted to the panel or wall between the top of a work surface and the bottom of an overhead cabinet.
Tapered Round Leg - A hardwood or metal leg typically found on lounge furniture that has a higher circumference at the top than at the bottom.
Tapered Square Leg - A hardwood or metal leg typically found on lounge furniture that has a higher width at the top than at the bottom.
Task Chair - An office chair that offers comfort for all-day work, and usually includes 360-degree swivel, adjustable seat height, and other controls and features that allow for comfortable reclining and optimal support. The chair provided for employees to work in. It is generally comfortable and adjustable and can swivel 360 degrees.
Task Light - The additional light source commonly provided at a desk or workstation. Can be freestanding or mounted underneath an overhead storage cabinet.
Tempered Hardboard – Very dense fiberboard with a smooth surface
Tension Control - A mechanical feature usually adjusted by a knob located under the seat of a chair that controls the degree of resistance the chair provides when leaning back. Knob-adjustable mechanism on the chair; controls the counterbalance of the seat when the user leans back
Tiled Panel - A systems furniture panel with a segmented look housing multiple panel inserts. These inserts can be of varying materials to create different looks or have different functions and can be changed out very easily.
Tilt Lock - A feature in office chairs that allows the user to prevent the chair from reclining whenever the user prefers firmer back support and an upright position.
Tilt Tension - A feature in office chairs that allows the user to increase or decrease the amount of pressure it takes to push the back when reclining.
Tongue And Groove - A joint made by fitting a tongue on the edge of a board into a matching groove on another board. A strong joint that is widely used for re-entrant angles.
Top Cap - The finished piece of the top of a workstation post or panel.
Transaction Top - A work surface typically mounted at 42" high and intended for receiving standing visitors such as at a reception station for exchanging information. Often seen at reception or secretary stations.
Translucent - A surface that light and objects can be perceived through, but not clearly made out.
Transparent - Clear enough to be seen through.
Tray Drawer – a personal drawer that is 4” in height.

“U” Shaped Workstation - A piece of furniture consisting of a single pedestal desk and a single pedestal credenza connected on one side by a flat top and modesty panel. A workstation desk forming the letter “U” when seen from above; will generally have a single pedestal and a single pedestal credenza connected on one side by a modesty panel.
Upholstered Back - An office chair back that has been covered in fabric upholstery, usually wrapped over padded cushioning.
Upholstered Seat - An office chair seat that has been covered in fabric upholstery wrapped over padded cushioning.
Upmount - The term used when stanchions are used to mount shelving or overhead storage on top of a work surface.

Veneer - A thin strip of real wood glued on to a substrate of plywood or particle board. Decorative covering of fine wood applied to a coarser wood or other material
Vertical File - A filing cabinet that is deeper than it is wide, in which records can only be stored front to back. A storage unit with drawers that is taller than the depth or width, which puts a lot of file storage into a smaller office space. Deeper than wide, a type of cabinet typically used to store files
Vertical Paper Manager - An addition to open cabinets that includes a number of open shelves for sorting and organizing paperwork.
Vertical Raceway Panel - A panel with an interior vertical cavity to bring power and data above work surface height.

Wall Mount - Refers to the installation of systems furniture pieces that are mounted directly to a drywall partition, rather than hung from a furniture panel. Office furniture pieces mounted directly to the wall.
Wardrobe Cabinet - A personal storage unit in a workspace designed to hold a coat, jacket or other hanging items.
Wire Management - A series of trays and troughs that neatly organize cables and cords from the work surface to the outlet source. Characteristics of a piece of furniture that conceal wires and power chords from view. Built in application to the workspace used to hide electrical wiring.
Work Surface – the top of the desk used to place a computer monitor, keyboard, mouse, or to generally do work on
Work Wall - A freestanding wall that adds privacy, can support one end of a work surface, and can hold paper and supply trays. In a private office environment, refers to the wall incorporating work surfaces, storage, power and accessories.
Workstation - A table or desk with three sided partition around it, usually made for individual work. An area made specifically for an employee to perform tasks comprised of a work surface, panels, storage, and other features conducive to productivity.

X-Post - The connector used when four panels meet at 90 degree angles. Also referred to as a 4-way connector.