When shopping for seating options for your dining room, you may come across the terms "dining chair" and "side chair." While they are often used interchangeably, there are subtle differences between the two.

1. Dining Chair – A Broad Category
A dining chair refers to any chair that is used at a dining table. This term is more general and includes a variety of styles, such as:

Armchairs (also known as host or hostess chairs) – These chairs have arms and are typically placed at the heads of the table.

Side chairs – These are armless chairs placed along the sides of the table.

Upholstered chairs – Some dining chairs are fully or partially upholstered for added comfort and style.

In essence, all side chairs are dining chairs, but not all dining chairs are side chairs.

2. Side Chair – A Specific Type
A side chair is a specific type of dining chair that does not have arms. It's typically lightweight and more compact, making it a versatile option not just for dining rooms but also for additional seating elsewhere in the home. Side chairs are usually placed along the sides of the table, hence the name.

Key Differences:
Feature Dining Chair Side Chair
Definition General category of table chairs Specific armless dining chair
Arms May have arms (armchairs) No arms
Placement Anywhere at the table Usually on the sides of the table
Versatility Varies by style Often used in other spaces too

Conclusion
The main difference comes down to design and function. A dining chair can be any chair meant for dining, while a side chair is a more specific, armless style typically used alongside the dining table or elsewhere in the home. Understanding the difference can help you choose the right seating for both function and style.