01 n. A long seat, differing from a stool in its greater length.
pl.
Benches
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1.
A long seat, differing from a stool in its greater length.“Mossy benches supplied the place of chairs.” — Sir W. Scott.
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2.
A long table at which mechanics and other work; as, a carpenter's bench.
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3.
The seat where judges sit in court.“To pluck down justice from your awful bench.” — Shak.
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4.
The persons who sit as judges; the court; as, the opinion of the full bench. See King's Bench. See: King's Bench
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5.
A collection or group of dogs exhibited to the public; -- so named because the animals are usually placed on benches or raised platforms.
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6.
A conformation like a bench; a long stretch of flat ground, or a kind of natural terrace, near a lake or river.
Phrases & compounds
Bench mark —
one of a number of marks along a line of survey, affixed to permanent objects, to show where leveling staffs were placed. See bench mark in the vocabulary.
Bench of bishops —
the whole body of English prelates assembled in council.
Bench plane —
any plane used by carpenters and joiners for working a flat surface, as jack planes, long planes.
Bench show —
an exhibition of dogs.
Bench table —
a projecting course at the base of a building, or round a pillar, sufficient to form a seat.