Question

Why is putting elbows on the table considered bad manners?

Answer 1

I think it is because when you put your elbows on the table, you tend to "lean" more over the plate and the table(and this is unsanitary!). Plus, if everyone were to put all elbows on the table, it would take up all of the room and everyone would be bumping elbows...so, I also think that it is common courtesy to those who are sitting around the table!

Answer 2

i think it's because you obstruct your face and communication. if you hold a glass and drink something and your elbows is on the table it covers your face. and you take up a lot of space on the table. and you usually slouch when your elbows is on the talbe...

Answer 3

There was a ladie named Emily Post who wrote a news paper column years ago, about eticute/ Manners.. I think it might have a start there.. It serves no useful purpose now, but it did in earlier centuries when food was scarse. Keeping your elbos on top served to keep others out of your dish.

Answer 4

As this is unhygienic to touch any part of the table.

Answer 5

I suspect that rule was originally invented to help you keep your elbows out of your food. It saves on drycleaning bills, anyway.

Answer 6

Because there is a ring of fairies that live around the edge of the table and you smash them with your elbows.

Answer 7

It just ain't done 'mongst polite folk.. . I don't think there has to be a reason other than appearing graceful and restricting one's movements to small, simple gestures. And because it keeps you from sitting up straight at the table.. . Also consider that many dinner parties there isn't much elbow room, if you're free with your elbows like that you're likely to poke one in your neighbor. Which would be very impolite.

Answer 8

This comes from the days before soap was commonly used. When people put their elbows on the table the stench from their armpits would turn the stomach of those eating with the offender, thereby spoiling dinner for everyone. Yuckie eh?