Pad Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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pad
[pæd ]
Definitions
writing
A piece of soft material used to protect or shape something, or to make something more comfortable
Synonyms
cushioning, filling, stuffing.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| pad |
Typically used to describe a soft layer placed for comfort, protection, or support on a surface such as a chair, bench, or floor.
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| cushioning |
Refers to materials used to absorb shock or prevent damage. Often found in protective gear, footwear, or packaging.
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| stuffing |
Refers to materials used to fill items like toys, furniture, or food, especially during holidays. Often implies a sense of 'filling up' and is commonly used in a culinary context.
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| filling |
Describes material used to stuff or fill something, such as pillows, pastries, or even dental work. The context can range from culinary to household goods.
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Examples of usage
- The dog bed was filled with soft padding.
- She added extra padding to her backpack for the hiking trip.
- I need to buy some padding for the dining room chairs.
computing
Unused space in a document or data structure that is used to fill in gaps and align the structure properly
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| pad |
Often used in programming or design to describe extra space added around elements to avoid them touching each other. Also used to describe the practice of adding cushioning material to protect something.
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| spacing |
Refers to the amount of space between objects or elements, commonly used in typography, design, and layout.
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| margin |
Typically used in printing, design, or layout to describe the blank space around the edges of a page or element. It can also refer to the amount by which something is won or achieved.
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| buffer |
Commonly used in computing to describe a temporary storage area. Can also imply creating extra time or space to handle unexpected events or delays.
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Examples of usage
- The padding in the HTML code helps to create space between elements.
- The developer added padding to the layout to improve readability.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Technology
- In tech, a 'pad' is often used to refer to devices like notepads or tablets that allow for digital writing.
- Touch pads, common in laptops, enable users to navigate without a mouse.
Art & Design
- Artists often use sketch pads to create their drawings, providing a portable way to express creativity.
- In graphic design, a 'pad' can refer to a space or area for arranging elements visually.
Health & Wellness
- In physical therapy, 'pads' are often used for support or comfort during exercises, preventing discomfort.
- In some cases, disposable pads are designed for health and hygiene purposes.
Vocabulary & Expressions
- 'Urban pad' or 'Bachelor pad' often refers to a home or living space that is stylish or clutter-free.
- Terms like 'notepad' or 'iPad' blend the idea of a pad with functionality, showing its versatility.
Origin of 'pad'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'pad' comes from the Old English 'pædd,' which means a cushion or soft mat.
- In the 14th century, it evolved to describe anything that provided a soft surface.
The word 'pad' has a long history, dating back to the 16th century. It originally referred to a cushion or bolster used on a chair or bed. Over time, the meaning expanded to include any soft material used for protection or comfort. In computing, 'padding' refers to extra space added to align data structures. The verb 'pad' evolved from the noun, meaning to add extra material for protection or softening. Overall, 'pad' has a rich history of usage in various contexts.