Couched in Truth

Home / Explore / Arts, Culture & Society

North Americans tend to use “sofa” and “couch” interchangeably. But north of the 49th, we also curl up on a chesterfield.

The term originated in England in the mid-1700s, when the fourth Earl of Chesterfield commissioned a leather sofa with a high back and low seats. As the British Empire expanded, the term travelled abroad and eventually took root in Canada, where it came to describe any kind of couch.

More commonly used by baby boomers and older generations, “chesterfield” is still understood by most Canadians and holds a cozy place in our history.

Your history. Your inbox.

With 7 uniquely curated newsletters to choose from, we have something for everyone.

Help keep Canada’s stories true, strong, and free

We hope you’ll help us continue to share fascinating stories about Canada’s past by making a donation to Canada’s History Society today.

We highlight our nation’s diverse past by telling stories that illuminate the people, places, and events that unite us as Canadians, and by making those stories accessible to everyone through our free online content.

We are a registered charity that depends on contributions from readers like you to share inspiring and informative stories with students and citizens of all ages — award-winning stories written by Canada’s top historians, authors, journalists, and history enthusiasts.

Any amount helps, or better yet, start a monthly donation today. Your support makes all the difference. Thank you!

Click to donate

This article was published in the Spring 2026 issue of Canada's History magazine.