Definition

A person who sits at the same table as someone else, especially during a meal.

Example

She enjoyed chatting with her tablemate during dinner.

Conversation

Who's your new tablemate at lunch?

Oh, it's Sarah; she's really nice and easy to talk to.

That's great! It's always nice to have a friendly tablemate.

Definitely! We share a lot of laughs over our meals.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tablemate is formed from "table" (from Old French *table*, meaning a flat surface for working or eating) and "mate" (from Old English *gemetta*, meaning a companion or associate). The word "tablemate" refers to a companion or associate who shares a table with someone, typically during a meal or gathering.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who shares a 'table' with you — that's your 'tablemate', a companion at the table.

Visually Confused Words