Pillow Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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pillow
[ˈpɪloʊ ]
Definitions
on bed
A rectangular cloth bag stuffed with feathers, foam, or other soft materials, used to support the head while lying down.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- I need a comfortable pillow to sleep well at night.
- She fluffed up the pillow before lying down.
for decoration
A decorative cushion or pad that can be placed on a sofa, chair, or bed for aesthetic purposes.
Synonyms
cushion, decorative cushion, throw pillow.
Examples of usage
- The living room was adorned with colorful pillows.
- She embroidered a beautiful design on the pillow.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
History
- In ancient Egypt, pillows were made from stone, as soft materials were considered too indulgent.
- The wealthy in ancient China often used silk pillows filled with fragrant herbs to enhance sleep.
- In the Middle Ages, people commonly used pillows stuffed with straw, feathers, or down to provide comfort.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, giving a pillow as a gift symbolizes wishes for good sleep and home comfort.
- Pillows are often featured in art and literature as symbols of rest, dreams, and domesticity.
- Different cultures use unique designs and materials for pillows, reflecting their values, climate, and lifestyle.
Health
- Proper pillow height and firmness can help prevent neck pain and improve overall sleep quality.
- Certain pillows are designed to support specific sleep positions, such as side or back sleeping.
- Memory foam pillows mold to the shape of your head and neck, providing customized support for better sleep.
Pop Culture
- Pillows are often humorous elements in movies and cartoons, used for slapstick comedy or as soft projectiles.
- In the world of gaming, pillows can appear as items to restore health or comfort characters during play.
- The phrase 'pillow talk' refers to intimate conversations that occur between partners while in bed, highlighting their emotional connection.
Origin of 'pillow'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'pillow' comes from the Old English 'pyle' which meant a cushion or bolster.
- In Latin, the term 'pulvinus' refers to a pillow or cushion, showing the concept's long history across languages.
- Many languages have similar words for pillow, like 'cuscino' in Italian, indicating a shared cultural importance.
The word 'pillow' originated from the Old English word 'pyle', which meant a soft object for resting the head. Pillows have been used for centuries to provide comfort and support while sleeping. Initially, pillows were made from natural materials such as feathers, straw, or wool. Over time, different cultures developed their own styles of pillows, incorporating various fabrics, designs, and fillings. Today, pillows are an essential part of bedding sets and home decor, offering both functionality and aesthetic appeal.