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
Ask the retailer about frame materials and cushion density before buying. — Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 22 July 2026 Ask the retailer for specifics on fiber content, abrasion rating, frame materials and cushion density. — Ryan Brennan, Kansas City Star, 21 July 2026
Verb
Each orthotic produced is hand designed by pedorthists in Germany using CAD software that adjusts structure, density and cushioning to fit each person’s unique feet profile. — Vicki M. Young, Footwear News, 16 July 2026 Advertisement Even while carrying an extraordinary load—from mobilization and reconstruction to displacement and missile defense—the Israeli government moved to cushion the households closest to the blast. — Frayda Leibtag, Time, 13 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for cushion
Recent Examples of Synonyms for cushion
  1. buffer
  2. soften
  3. pad
  4. shield
  5. bumper
Noun
  • If your ambition strains your calendar, map the work in blocks and protect a buffer.
    — Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 17 July 2026
  • Portions of the road through unincorporated Lemon HIll, South Oak Park and North and South City Farms have four traffic lanes, a central turn lane and bike lanes without buffers separating bicyclists from traffic.
    — Madison Smalstig July 16, Sacbee.com, 16 July 2026
Definition of buffer
Verb
  • In recent months, with his cancer diagnosis now public, his attitude had softened and the prospect of him coming back to the stadium was dangling.
    — George Caulkin, New York Times, 21 July 2026
  • Let your shoes soften the look, while the rest of your accessories—like a designer bag and statement jewelry—do all the heavy lifting.
    — India Roby, Glamour, 21 July 2026
Definition of soften
Noun
  • Harvick, who on May 19th was named to the latest class in the NASCAR Hall Of Fame and will be inducted next January, believes his first Brickyard 400 win on August 3, 2003, served as the launching pad to his Hall of Fame career.
    — Bruce Martin, Forbes.com, 24 July 2026
  • Burial is far and away the blueprint here, evident in the vespertine pads, tape hiss, and hauntological vocal flips, deployed as if overheard from a distant astral plane.
    — Hattie Lindert, Pitchfork, 23 July 2026
Definition of pad
Noun
  • However, with Messi's impending retirement, this protective shield is gone.
    — Shann Biglione, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026
  • The tough andesite provides a 5,275-foot shield for these tunnels, offering extra security.
    — Stephanie Pappas, Scientific American, 23 July 2026
Definition of shield
Noun
  • The Equinox driver then lost control and veered hard to the left, striking the rear passenger side bumper of a 2024 Mitsubishi Eclipse that was in the center lane, state police said.
    — Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 20 July 2026
  • Oil prices were higher on Friday, firmly on track to register bumper weekly gains.
    — Sam Meredith,Elsa Ohlen, CNBC, 17 July 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 26 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on cushion

Nglish: Translation of cushion for Spanish Speakers

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