Synonyms of cushion

cushion 1 of 2

noun

ˈku̇-shən 

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

• buffer
• pad
• shield
• bumper
• fender
• cushioning
• cocoon
• padding
• barricade
• safeguard
• baffle
• muffler
• cordon

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

• soften
• buffer
• mitigate
• alleviate
• gentle
• temper
• dull
• moderate
• relieve
• modulate
• dampen
• baffle
• deaden
• obtund
• ease
• lighten
• allay
• assuage

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• intensify
• sharpen
• heighten

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of cushion

Noun

At 3rd Culture, visitors will find cushion covers, traditional Turkish linen towels (peshtemals), and lampshades covered in quirky, geometric patterns. — Cnt Editors, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 Aug. 2026

Starting pitcher Jesús Luzardo struck out 12 in seven sharp innings for the Phillies, who began play with a one-game cushion in the NL wild-card race. — CBS News, 9 Aug. 2026

Verb

Swirling To Survive Every coral colony is cushioned by a thin boundary layer of water whose movement is slowed by friction at the coral’s surface. — Marlowe Starling, Quanta Magazine, 5 Aug. 2026

While the sole is much thinner than many of the other options on our list, it’s made out of plush memory foam that cushions the foot with every step. — Kate Donovan, Southern Living, 30 July 2026