padding

noun

pad·​ding ˈpa-diŋ How to pronounce padding (audio)
: 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 Americans’ newfound desire for space, the padding of U.S. household finances from government relief checks, and sub-3% mortgage rates were a potent mix that sent home prices skyward. Justin Lahart, WSJ, 28 Nov. 2023 The padding is cushiony, and the exterior waterproof tarpaulin and Robic 1680-denier ballistic nylon materials have held up extremely well over time. Scott Gilbertson, WIRED, 28 Nov. 2023 Look for backpack or crossbody straps with plenty of padding that can be quickly and easily adjusted for a custom fit. Jessica MacDonald, Travel + Leisure, 27 Nov. 2023 This bra is like a ninja that secretly minimizes your bust, with ultra-thin padding for a disappearing neckline and invisible edges for a clean look. Courtney Leiva, Peoplemag, 20 Nov. 2023 The rattan back offers ventilation, while the boucle cushion provides plenty of padding when sitting. Sanah Faroke, Peoplemag, 16 Nov. 2023 There are footed zip-up sleepers for babies, snug-fit footed zip-ups with padding on the bottom for older babies and toddlers, and two-piece sets for everyone else. Jessica Booth, Parents, 14 Nov. 2023 The fabric is silky smooth, and there’s no padding, meaning no stitching to cause rubbing. Grace McCarty, SELF, 9 Nov. 2023 Keep all of the mesh and padding intact by avoiding a heated tumble. Southern Living Editors, Southern Living, 2 Nov. 2023 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'padding.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1640, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of padding was in 1640

Dictionary Entries Near padding

Cite this Entry

“Padding.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/padding. Accessed 3 Dec. 2023.

Kids Definition

padding

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

More from Merriam-Webster on padding

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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