What did the term "lazy susan" come from?

The Curious Origins of the "Lazy Susan"

Ever spin a condiment bottle on a revolving tray in the middle of the dinner table and wonder, “Why is this called a Lazy Susan?” The answer isn’t entirely clear, but it’s steeped in a mix of folklore and historical guesswork.

One popular theory traces back to Thomas Edison. After inventing the phonograph in 1877, he reportedly developed a rotating turntable to help organize records—an early version of what we now recognize as the Lazy Susan. While Edison may have contributed to the mechanics, the name likely came later, and from a very different place.

Another, more colorful theory suggests the term emerged in early 20th-century America. At the time, “Susan” was a common name—and often used generically for housemaids. The term “Lazy Susan” may have been a tongue-in-cheek jab at servants perceived as slow or inefficient, implying they needed a rotating tray to make their work easier. It was less about the invention and more about social commentary.

Yet, there’s no solid proof that the name was originally derogatory. Some linguists argue it was simply a catchy, alliterative phrase that stuck. The first known printed use of “Lazy Susan” appeared in a 1906 issue of *Good Housekeeping*, describing a rotating serving dish, suggesting the term was already in casual use.

Whether born from Edison’s tinkering or household humor, the Lazy Susan has defied its possibly cheeky origins to become a staple in kitchens everywhere. Today, it spins silently through dinner chaos, serving up everything from soy sauce to sympathy for the overworked host. And as for Susan? She may have been fictional, but her legacy is very much in motion.