Definition:

An apron is a wooden panel that connects the surface and legs of a table or chair. It is placed at right angles to the underside of a tabletop or seat of a chair, and extends between the top of the legs. Aprons are also used on bottoms of cabinets and chests.

An apron can provide a decorative touch to an otherwise unadorned piece of furniture and at the same time provide structural support and strength.

They can be carved or pierced and quite elaborate depending on when the furniture was made.

Sometimes the apron can be so pronounced that taking it away would completely change the look of a piece. Go to About.com's Antiques site to see an apron on an antique Chippendale chair.