noun
seat saving; holding a seat; reserving a place
The act of keeping a seat for someone, often by placing a personal item on it. Commonly used in contexts like classrooms, cafeterias, or events.
図書館で席取りをするのは禁止されています。
Saving seats is prohibited in the library.
友達のために席取りをしておいた。
I saved a seat for my friend.
場所取り is more general, referring to reserving any kind of spot or space, not just a seat.
Compound of 席 (seat) and 取り (taking), from the verb 取る (to take).