cushion 1 of 2

Definition of cushionnext
as in buffer
something that serves as a protective barrier used a blanket as a cushion between the two tables in the moving van

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

cushion

2 of 2

verb

as in to soften
to lessen the shock of a substantial nest egg helped to cushion the sudden loss of her job

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of cushion
Noun
Urban and suburban communities have their own version—parking costs, transit gaps, professional dress requirements that assume a financial cushion many families don't have. Kellie Lauth, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026 Best Wayfair Four-Day Flash Sale Deals Overall With its plush cushions and easy-to-configure design, this patio set is the ideal spot to gather outside this summer. Better Homes & Gardens, 24 June 2026
Verb
By cutting down on imports, relying on vast stockpiles and utilizing more clean energy, China has been able to cushion the impact of higher prices at home, if not alleviate it completely. Stephanie Yang, CNN Money, 22 June 2026 Since the war started, the industry has been relying on inventories — stockpiles of base oil — which has helped cushion the blow for retail customers. Camila Domonoske, NPR, 16 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for cushion
Recent Examples of Synonyms for cushion
Noun
  • Gina Martinez, chair of the executive board of the Wilmington Neighborhood Council, said the land in question provides a vital buffer between port activity and residential communities.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 27 June 2026
  • Files, buffers, cuticle tools and even gel systems can last for months or years with proper care, which means the math tilts in favor of DIY after just a few uses.
    Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Kansas City Star, 26 June 2026
Verb
  • Speaking of glow, Medicube is also marking down their milky toner, which helps boost radiance, soften skin, and increase hydration.
    Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 24 June 2026
  • Grandchildren tend to soften even the most complicated family disputes.
    Stephanie Nolasco, FOXNews.com, 24 June 2026
Noun
  • Rather than get the rocket off the ground vertically on a launch pad, Northrop Grumman deploys an air-launch strategy to send the Pegasus to space.
    Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 28 June 2026
  • South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt was bowled between bat and pad by Marufa Akter.
    ABC News, ABC News, 28 June 2026
Noun
  • Reflective, multilayer shields will block the most heat, and ones with a thicker foam core will work much better than thin ones.
    Cody Godwin, USA Today, 26 June 2026
  • The federal program, established by Congress in 1990, shields immigrants from countries in turmoil from deportation.
    Syra Ortiz Blanes, Miami Herald, 26 June 2026
Noun
  • The bumper was rubbing the tire and a headlight looked to be dragging.
    Doug Turnbull, AJC.com, 28 June 2026
  • Two years later, batting cages, three go-kart tracks, bumper boats and laser tag were added.
    Colson Thayer, PEOPLE, 26 June 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cushion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/cushion. Accessed 1 Jul. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on cushion

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster