A Recliner is an armchair or sofa that reclines when the occupant lowers the chair’s back and raises its front. It has a backrest that can be tilted back, and often a footrest that may be extended by means of a lever on the side of the chair, or may extend automatically when the back is reclined.
A Reclining chair is an upholstered chair with a metal mechanism activated by the user so that the back is pushed out and a foot rest rises up to accommodate the user’s lower legs. Most recliners are armchairs, meaning they include arms. Upholstered backs and seats make the chair a truly comfortable piece of furniture. Reclining chairs or sofas are called “action” or “motion” furniture in that they move or change shape. Some recliners are activated by the sitter pulling on a lever; others are activated by the sitter pushing back in the chair with some force.