The word "davenport" is believed to have originated in the early 19th century in the United States. It is thought to be a combination of the name of the city of Davenport, Iowa, and the word "portmanteau," which refers to a suitcase or traveling bag. The term "davenport" was initially used to describe a type of sofa that was designed to be easily folded up and transported, like a portmanteau. Over time, the term came to be used more generally to refer to any type of sofa or couch.