How did pews get their name?

The term "pew" originates from the Old French Word "puie," meaning a bench or a seat. This term evolved in Middle English to refer specifically to the enclosed seating found in churches. Pews were designed to provide a designated space for congregants during worship services, and over time, they became a standard feature in many places of worship. The Word has since come to symbolize not just the seating itself but also the communal aspect of gathering for religious services.