Definition
A piece of furniture with a flat top and legs, used for eating, working, or placing things on.
Example
Toda la familia se sentó a la mesa para cenar.
Show translation
The whole family sat at the table for dinner.
Etymology
From Latin mensa ("table, meal"). The same root gives Italian and Portuguese mesa/mensa and is related to the idea of a surface for serving food.
Cultural note
In Spanish-speaking cultures, la mesa is often the heart of family life — long Sunday lunches (la comida del domingo) can last several hours. The phrase "poner la mesa" (to set the table) is a common household chore taught to children early.