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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
The air cushion corners absorb shock while helping the case retain a lighter, cleaner profile. — New Atlas, 14 Sep. 2026 Then the Padres commenced giving him a big cushion, scoring two runs in the second inning and batting around and scoring five times in the second. — Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 Sep. 2026
Verb
The script by Strippoli and Salvatore de Chirico shrewdly underplays that hand, instead cushioning the vanity factor in sincere parental concern for the children’s health, well-being and preordained path to success. — David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 8 Sep. 2026 Many higher-income countries, though challenged by the disruption, have cushioned the blow by tapping strategic reserves or using their financial and political clout to secure emergency supplies. — Nana Menya Ayensu, semafor.com, 7 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
  • Maxar | Maxar | Getty Images Ample global inventories and stockpiles have historically acted as a crucial buffer to keep a lid on oil prices during previous crises.
    — Sam Meredith, CNBC, 15 Sep. 2026
  • However, any sense of security that three-year buffer may have offered was a mirage; Newcastle recognised that, with Hall having so many admirers across Europe, extending his contract had to be an immediate post-window priority.
    — Chris Waugh, New York Times, 11 Sep. 2026
Definition of buffer
Verb
  • This unit has plenty of opportunities to gel by November, when the schedule softens a bit before a potential playoff push.
    — Zak Keefer, New York Times, 9 Sep. 2026
  • But while anti-immigrant, pro-Russian parties have made inroads across the continent in recent years, there have also been notable reversals, and some have softened their views to build coalitions with moderates.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 8 Sep. 2026
Definition of soften
Noun
  • According to the nonwovens industry association EDANA, the European Disposables and Nonwovens Association, Confitex’s reusable bed pad can absorb more than 2 liters of liquid and withstand up to 30 wash-and-dry cycles.
    — Alexandra Harrell, Footwear News, 17 Sep. 2026
  • Those with a penchant for toner pads or exfoliation should turn to M-61’s PowerGlow Peel—one swipe for a visible glow, no rinse required.
    — Valeriya Chupinina, Vogue, 17 Sep. 2026
Definition of pad
Noun
  • In a second the players were there, every single player was there, stopping celebrations, building a shield, protecting Jordan, not going anywhere, in full empathy.
    — Jack Pitt-Brooke, New York Times, 15 Sep. 2026
  • Three of the Starlink craft launching on Flight 14 have been outfitted with cameras and will photograph the heat shield on Starship's upper stage, known as Ship, after deployment.
    — Mike Wall, Space.com, 15 Sep. 2026
Definition of shield
Noun
  • Easy to hang with pre-routed keyholes and soft bumpers to protect walls.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 14 Sep. 2026
  • Alternatively, the Duo Case serves as more of a bumper around the phone, keeping the top screen visible without covering the hinge on the side of the phone, the video shows.
    — Melina Khan, USA Today, 10 Sep. 2026
Definition of bumper

Browse Nearby Words

curvy
cushion
cushioned
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Cite this Entry

“Cushion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/cushion. Accessed 20 Sep. 2026.

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