While I knew a Chesterfield was a couch, and an Axminster
was a carpet, I still don't know if the word Chesterfield refers to the earl,
his couch, or his suit. Possibly all three; dictionary.com didn't specify.
Share the words, and report your colleagues bemused expressions when you come
back.
Chesterfield [ches-ter-feeld]
–noun
1. (Sometimes initial capital letter) a single- or
double-breasted topcoat or overcoat with a fly front and a narrow velvet
collar.
2. A large, overstuffed sofa or divan with a back and
upholstered arms. 3. Chiefly Canadian . Any large sofa or couch.
1885–90; named after
an Earl of Chesterfield in the 19th
century.
Ingénue [an-zhuh-noo,
-nyoo]
–noun, plural -nues [-nooz, -nyooz; Fr. -ny] Show IPA.
1. the part of an artless, innocent, unworldly girl or young
woman, especially as represented on the stage.
2. an actress who plays such a part or specializes in
playing such parts.
Bemused [bih-myoozd]
–adjective
1. bewildered or confused.
2. lost in thought; preoccupied.
The bemused ingénue sat on the antique Chesterfield,
clutching her script in one hand, but not really seeing the words printed on
the page.
~Marie