A pew is a long bench seat or enclosed box, used for seating members of a congregation or choir in a church, synagogue or sometimes a courtroom. Occasionally, they are also found in live performance venues. In Christian churches of the Roman Catholic, Lutheran, and Anglican traditions, kneelers are an essential part of the pew, that are used during various parts of the liturgy.

A bench is a long seat on which multiple people may sit at the same time. Benches are typically made of wood, but may also be made of metal, stone, or synthetic materials. Many benches have back rests, while others do not and can be accessed from either side. Arm rests are another common feature. In many American public areas, benches may be donated by persons or associations, as indicated by an affixed plaque, a common form of memorial to a deceased person. Benches may be placed outdoors or indoors, but are more often found outdoors.