Hassock Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ช
hassock
[หhasษk ]
Definitions
furniture
A thick cushion used as a footstool or for kneeling.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hassock |
Typically used in British English, a hassock is a thick cushion used for kneeling or as a footrest. It is also found in churches as kneelers.
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| footstool |
A small, low piece of furniture designed specifically for resting one's feet while seated. It's used in everyday situations around the home or office.
|
| ottoman |
A padded, upholstered seat or bench, often without a back or arms, that can also serve as a coffee table or storage unit. It's suitable for more formal settings or living rooms.
|
| pouf |
A large, soft, and often round cushion that is used for sitting or resting feet. Poufs are typically more casual and can add a playful touch to a room.
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Examples of usage
- The woman put her feet up on the hassock while reading a book.
- He used the hassock as a makeshift seat during the picnic.
religion
A cushion for kneeling on in church.
Synonyms
kneeler, prayer cushion, prie-dieu.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hassock |
A thick cushion used for kneeling, typically in a church.
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| kneeler |
A piece of furniture or a padded cushion used specifically for kneeling in prayer, often found in churches.
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| prayer cushion |
A small, soft cushion used during prayer, can be found in homes or religious settings.
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| prie-dieu |
A small, narrow desk or bench used for kneeling in prayer, usually in religious settings, sometimes equipped with a shelf for books or other items.
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Examples of usage
- The parishioners knelt on the hassocks during the prayer service.
- The priest placed the hassocks in front of the altar for the congregation.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Design and Decor
- Hassocks are often used in homes for both functional seating and as decorative elements, adding color and texture to a room.
- They can come in various shapesโround, square, or even animal formsโto match different styles and preferences.
- Some hassocks even feature storage space inside, combining style with practical use.
Psychology
- Having a comfortable seat like a hassock can enhance relaxation, potentially lowering stress and improving mood.
- Soft furnishings in living spaces create a welcoming environment, which can help promote social interactions.
- The act of putting your feet up on a hassock can signal a break, encouraging your brain to shift into a more restful state.
Cultural References
- In various cultures, cushions and similar objects symbolize hospitality and comfort, inviting guests to relax.
- Hassocks feature in literature and art as representations of domestic tranquility, often depicting family gatherings.
- Some movies use hassocks as props to show characters in relaxed or intimate settings.
Functionality
- Hassocks are versatile pieces of furniture that can serve as stools, side tables, or footrests in any setting.
- Some designs are lightweight, making it easy to move them around or stack them when not in use.
- They can be made from a variety of materials, including fabric, leather, or even recycled items, catering to eco-friendly preferences.
Origin of 'hassock'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'hassock' originally referred to a clump of grass or a tuft of earth, deriving from the Middle English word 'hasok'.
- Over time, its meaning shifted to describe a specific type of cushion or padded footstool.
- In historical contexts, it was often used in churches, providing comfort during long services.
The word 'hassock' originated from the Middle English word 'hask', which means rough grass or sedge. It evolved to refer to a thick cushion or footstool in the 18th century. The usage of 'hassock' in relation to church cushions dates back to the 19th century.