# lazy Susan

> English word · Noun

## Definitions
1. A rotating tray (turntable) used on tables and counters for serving condiments or food.
2. A rotating set of shelves used to minimize inaccessible space, usually employed in corner kitchen cabinets.
3. Synonym of round trip (“form of barter involving selling and buying back”).

## Etymology
Uncertain, but probably a generic name like Jane, in reference to the device replacing a servant at table. The earliest attestation is from c. 1903 in the Boston Journal, which credits a local carpenter named John Laurie as "the resuscitator of 'Lazy Susan'". Almost certainly not named in honor of the daughters of Thomas Jefferson or Edison who were both named Susan.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/lazy-susan