pillow

1 of 2

noun

pil·​low ˈpi-(ˌ)lō 

1

a

: a support for the head of a reclining person

especially : one consisting of a cloth bag filled with feathers, down, sponge rubber, or plastic fiber

b

: something resembling a pillow especially in form

2

: a cushion or pad tightly stuffed and used as a support for the design and tools in making lace with a bobbin

pillowy

ˈpi-lə-wē 

adjective

pillow

2 of 2

verb

pillowed; pillowing; pillows

transitive verb

1

: to rest or lay on or as if on a pillow

2

: to serve as a pillow for

intransitive verb

: to lay or rest one's head on or as if on a pillow

Examples of pillow in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

In fact, adding texture and layering with accessories and pillows will create a warm and inviting home no matter the size. —Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 1 Apr. 2026

Coordinating small details like pillows, rugs and lighting makes your entryway feel intentional and personal — even on a starter budget. —Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 31 Mar. 2026

Upholstered in a high-pile chenille, the chaise’s oversized shape is slightly overstuffed—with layers of high-resiliency foam and memory foam seat topper—to give that pillow-like effect. —Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 31 Mar. 2026

Sleeping bags were permitted, but not pillows or pads. —Charles Bethea, New Yorker, 30 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Middle English pilwe, from Old English pyle (akin to Old High German pfuliwi), from Latin pulvinus

First Known Use

Noun

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Verb

1629, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Phrases Containing pillow

• pillow block
• pillow fight
• pillow lace
• pillow slip
• pillow talk
• throw pillow

Rhymes for pillow

• billow
• armadillo
• caudillo

Kids Definition

pillow

1 of 2 noun

pil·​low ˈpil-ō 

: a bag filled with soft or springy material used as a cushion usually for the head of a person lying down

pillow

2 of 2 verb

1

: to place on or as if on a pillow

2

: to serve as a pillow for