furniture
UK[ˈfɜːnɪtʃə]US[ˈfɜːrnɪtʃər]
n
The movable objects, such as chairs, tables, and beds, that are used to make a room or building suitable for living or working in.
Etymology
The word 'furniture' entered English in the mid-16th century from French fourniture, meaning 'a supply or provision'. This French term derived from the verb fournir, 'to furnish or provide', which itself has Germanic origins, likely from Old High German frumjan, meaning 'to accomplish or provide'. The semantic evolution is clear: from the general concept of 'provision' or 'supply', the meaning narrowed specifically to the 'provisions' or 'equipment' necessary for a house, eventually becoming the term for the collective movable articles that equip a room or building.
Analysis
The word is a simplex noun borrowed from French. It cannot be meaningfully segmented into productive morphemes in modern English based on its current spelling.
Examples
The living room furniture was arranged around the fireplace.
They bought some antique furniture at the auction.
Modern office furniture is designed for both comfort and efficiency.