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
As the strings quiver like a James Bond crescendo, the song gets stereophonic, like we’re being blasted deeper into the cushions of a conversation pit. — Linnie Greene, Pitchfork, 29 July 2026 Simply stuff the hidden compartment with soft products like T-shirts and socks to create a customizable cushion that’s lightweight, space-saving, and surprisingly practical. — Julia Morlino, Travel + Leisure, 28 July 2026
Verb
The glossy oil-gel formula cushions lips with squalane, passion fruit seed oil, and sodium hyaluronate for juicy hydration, while a hint of peppermint and menthol delivers a subtle cooling sensation that makes lips feel instantly refreshed. — Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 26 July 2026 Plus, the cushioned footbed gradually molds to your feet over time. — Aashna Gheewalla, PEOPLE, 26 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
  • The developers plan to add more vegetative buffer between Irongate and neighboring developments, Combs said.
    — Joe Marusak July 25, Charlotte Observer, 25 July 2026
  • Oil buffer is running out Strategic reserve releases have provided a critical buffer, with hundreds of millions of barrels released globally to offset supply disruptions.
    — Justin Zacks, CNBC, 24 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
  • But even in the passing portion of camp, before the pads come on, the Chiefs lined up under center.
    — Sam McDowell July 31, Kansas City Star, 31 July 2026
  • With the pads not coming on until next week, the early practice sessions put more focus on technique and conditioning before the physicality ramps up on Monday.
    — Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 30 July 2026
Definition of pad
Noun
  • Operating continuously beneath complex sub-river geology of riverbed silt and sand, the shield machine operated without intermediate access shafts.
    — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 30 July 2026
  • Digital shield firewall with central computer processor and futuristic motherboard.
    — Chuck Brooks, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026
Definition of shield
Noun
  • Turo sent photos, one of which showed a scratch on the fender and a small hole in the bumper.
    — Christopher Elliott, Mercury News, 27 July 2026
  • Also updated is the button layout, which is much appreciated (no more awkward reloading and vehicle boarding via the right front bumper, thank God), in addition to giving the Warthog traditional car controls, if that’s your preference.
    — Mitch Wallace, Forbes.com, 26 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 2 Aug. 2026.

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