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part of the furniture
01
something or someone that has been at a place for so long that one no longer notices them
IdiomWhat is the origin of the idiom "part of the furniture" and when to use it?
The phrase "part of the furniture" originated in the early 20th century and referred to a person or thing that had been in a particular place or organization for so long that they were like a piece of furniture. The term "furniture" is used metaphorically to represent the idea of something that is permanent and immovable. It is often used in work or professional contexts, where someone may have worked for an organization for many years.
Examples
By the time they left the company, they had become part of the furniture and were deeply missed.
He had been the head of the department for so many years that everyone considered him part of the furniture.
