Cushion Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cushion

[ˈkʊʃən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

on a sofa

A cushion is a soft bag of cloth, leather, or rubber filled with feathers, air, foam, or other soft material, used to support the head, back, or other parts of the body while sitting, reclining, or sleeping.

Synonyms

bolster, pad, pillow.

Examples of usage

  • The cushions on the sofa are so comfortable.
  • She added a few more cushions to the armchair for extra support.
Context #2 | Verb

soften the effect of something

To cushion means to lessen the impact, force, or effect of something. It can also refer to providing support or comfort.

Synonyms

dampen, mitigate, soften.

Examples of usage

  • She tried to cushion the blow by offering him a promotion.
  • The company decided to cushion the financial loss by cutting costs elsewhere.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'cushion'

The word 'cushion' originated from the Old French word 'coisson', which was derived from the Latin word 'coxa' meaning 'hip'. The idea was that a cushion supports like the hip supports the body. Over time, the word evolved to refer to a soft bag used for support or comfort.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,584, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.