cushion

¹cush·ion

noun \ˈku̇-shən\

Definition of CUSHION

1

: a soft pillow or pad usually used for sitting, reclining, or kneeling

2

: a bodily part resembling a pad

3

: something resembling a cushion: as a : pillow 2 b : rat 3 c : a pad of springy rubber along the inside of the rim of a billiard table d : a padded insert in a shoe e : an elastic body for reducing shock f : a mat laid under a large rug to ease the effect of wear

4

a : something (as an economic factor or a medical procedure) serving to mitigate the effects of disturbances or disorders b : a reserve supply (as of money) c : a comfortable lead <a 4–0 cushion in the ninth inning>

— cush·ion·less \-ləs\ adjective

— cush·iony \-shə-nē\ adjective

Examples of CUSHION

1. There is a cushion under the rug to protect the floor.
2. We didn't have a financial cushion when my husband lost his job.

Origin of CUSHION

Middle English cusshin, from Anglo-French cussin, quissin, from Vulgar Latin *coxinus, from Latin coxa hip — more at coxa

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to CUSHION

Synonyms: buffer, bumper, cocoon, cushioning, fender, pad

Related Words: baffle, muffler; padding; safeguard, shield; barricade, cordon

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