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cushion 1 of 2

noun

ˈku̇-shən How to pronounce cushion (audio)
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

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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
Ramírez connected in the sixth inning to give the Guardians a two-run cushion. — ABC News, 18 Sep. 2026 Their memory foam cushion insole also keeps your feet supported and comfortable throughout walk- or stand-heavy days. — Olivia Dubyak, PEOPLE, 17 Sep. 2026
Verb
There is no funding round to cushion the impact of a poor quarter, nor is there a financial buffer to rely on. — Shreyans Lodha, Forbes.com, 18 Sep. 2026 The sole offers premium cushioning for comfort, while the insole molds to your foot for a customized fit. — Paige Bennett, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for cushion
Recent Examples of Synonyms for cushion
  1. buffer
  2. soften
  3. pad
  4. shield
  5. bumper
Noun
  • This structure buffers portfolio companies from participants’ immediate liquidity needs.
    — Nate Heeren, Forbes.com, 23 Sep. 2026
  • Earlier this year, tariff refunds provided a temporary cost buffer for Home Depot, but company executives noted that these gains are expected to be offset by unplanned spikes in fuel, energy, and other input costs.
    — , CNBC, 21 Sep. 2026
Definition of buffer
Verb
  • The Sagittarius Moon trines Chiron in your partnership zone, softening the instinct to package every feeling so perfectly that nobody could possibly object.
    — Tarot.com, Chicago Tribune, 19 Sep. 2026
  • In a nod to the brand’s Brazilian roots, Brazil nut oil (rich in vitamin E and fatty acids including omegas 3 and 6) adds nourishing emollient benefits, while rice bran oil and dimethicone soften skin and keep moisture from escaping.
    — Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 19 Sep. 2026
Definition of soften
Noun
  • In addition to seasoned actors, including Stephen Amel and Shay Mitchell, the show is also a launching pad for acting newcomers, Brooks Nader, Livvy Dunne and Noah Beck.
    — Lori A Bashian , Larry Fink, FOXNews.com, 24 Sep. 2026
  • Today's wet dress rehearsal, which involves fully fueling Starship on the launch pad for a full countdown simulation run, is expected to wrap up later this morning.
    — Josh Dinner, Space.com, 24 Sep. 2026
Definition of pad
Noun
  • Some demonstrators cursed at police officers holding riot shields, while others yelled out as passing cars honked in support of the protest.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 21 Sep. 2026
  • There are also three shields on the top deck, high up where everyone can stare accusatorily at whoever is brazen enough to grab one.
    — Alice Burton, Vulture, 18 Sep. 2026
Definition of shield
Noun
  • Helped by the single-cab Land Cruiser 79 up front, the entire EX 270 vehicle measures 580 cm (228 in) from bumper to bumper, shorter than many of the camper vans displayed prominently throughout multiple Caravan Salon halls.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 20 Sep. 2026
  • After that, the ball belonged to the machine, zinging and zooming wherever the bumpers sent it.
    — John Dickerson, The Atlantic, 20 Sep. 2026
Definition of bumper

Browse Nearby Words

curvy
cushion
cushioned
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cushion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/cushion. Accessed 27 Sep. 2026.

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