padding

noun

pad·​ding ˈpa-diŋ How to pronounce padding (audio)
Synonyms of paddingnext
: material with which something is padded

Examples of padding in a Sentence

the padding on the seat of the chairs These shoes have extra padding in the heel. If you remove the padding from his speech you can see that he offers no new ideas.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
This pair at Quince comes in black and white and has an OthoLite insole that provides padding and support. Rachel Trujillo, PEOPLE, 9 June 2026 Your child should be wearing plenty of protective padding. Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 9 June 2026 The simple design features functional details, including adjustable skinny straps for a customizable fit and a supportive shelf bra with removable padding. Melony Forcier, Travel + Leisure, 7 June 2026 Its satin fabric is surprisingly forgiving thanks to its four-way stretch, while an adjustable, self-tie back and padding-free bust will allow me to fine-tune my fit before running to the tailor. Olivia Cigliano, InStyle, 2 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for padding

Word History

First Known Use

1640, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of padding was in 1640

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Padding.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/padding. Accessed 17 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

padding

noun
pad·​ding
ˈpad-iŋ
: material used to pad something

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