bench
word
Definition
A bench is a long seat for more than one person, often found in parks or public places. It can also mean the place where substitute players sit in sports, or the group of judges in a court.
Usage & Nuances
Most often, 'bench' means a long public seat. In sports, 'on the bench' means not currently playing. In law, 'the bench' is formal and refers to judges. Also note the verb 'bench' in sports, meaning to remove a player from the game.
Example Sentences
We sat on a bench in the park.
basic
The coach kept him on the bench all game.
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The bench listened carefully to the lawyer.
basic
There was only one bench left, so we all squeezed onto it.
natural
If you miss practice again, you'll be on the bench this weekend.
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Her appointment to the bench was big news in the legal community.
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