cushioning 1 of 3

noun

Definition of cushioningnext
as in buffer
something that serves as a protective barrier put plenty of cushioning around that bottle of wine if you're going to carry it home in your suitcase

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cushioning

2 of 3

adjective

as in softening

Related Words

Dissimilar Words

cushioning

3 of 3

verb

present participle of cushion
as in buffering
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 cushioning
Noun
From the cloud-like cushioning of New Balance sneakers to the dressier Tory Burch style that doubles as streetwear, read on for the breeziest walking and running shoes designed for all-day comfort. — Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Aug. 2026 People with high arches should look for cushioning, support, and stability since their feet absorb shock less effectively. — Jeaneen Russell, PEOPLE, 7 Aug. 2026
Verb
This slip-in pair goes on hands-free, while the memory foam insole delivers cushioning for optimal comfort. — Erin Cavoto, Travel + Leisure, 17 July 2026 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 See All Example Sentences for cushioning
Recent Examples of Synonyms for cushioning
  1. buffer
  2. emollient
  3. softening
  4. cushion
  5. compassionate
  6. pad
  7. shield
  8. bumper
Noun
  • Options are available for the whole family including the delectable Daisy collection – including pedi buffers, DC and Harry Potter designs, men's scents, spongelato and more.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 15 Aug. 2026
  • Energy security also requires strong buffers against supply disruptions.
    — Jason Bordoff, Foreign Affairs, 14 Aug. 2026
Definition of buffer
Adjective
  • Meanwhile, emollient vitamin E and softening jojoba seed oil condition your natural nails, leaving them (and the skin around them) feeling softer and more hydrated.
    — Sarah Felbin, Allure, 30 Apr. 2026
  • The formula is infused with emollient fatty acids to help support the skin’s moisture barrier, while its semi-sheer finish ensures a soft glow—far from the heavy-handed bronzer looks of the mid-2010s.
    — Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 29 Aug. 2025
Definition of emollient
Verb
  • Wrap loosely in a paper towel and place in a perforated bag or container to help absorb excess moisture, which will slow down softening.
    — Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 8 Aug. 2026
  • The softening job market may complicate the calculation for the Federal Reserve, which is also battling stubborn inflation.
    — Scott Horsley, NPR, 7 Aug. 2026
Definition of softening
Noun
  • Tromso’s substantial first-leg cushion did at least provide Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler and his staff with a bit more time to prepare for the tests that await them.
    — Andy Naylor, New York Times, 14 Aug. 2026
  • These costs can increase over time, so build in a cushion when setting your ceiling.
    — Sharon Wu, USA Today, 13 Aug. 2026
Definition of cushion
Adjective
  • Healthcare needs talented, compassionate clinicians now more than ever.
    — Jeff Giullian, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2026
  • Social Security uses technology to scan disability applications for conditions on the compassionate allowances list, and those applications often receive approval within days, according to one law firm.
    — Aimee Picchi, CBS News, 11 Aug. 2026
Definition of compassionate
Noun
  • These messages were a launching pad for the spread of inaccurate data, particularly claims about an 82% risk of miscarriage associated with Covid-19 vaccines.
    — Deidre McPhillips, CNN Money, 14 Aug. 2026
  • The six-bedroom, 12-bathroom pad is anchored by a palatial living room with a sleek fireplace.
    — Architectural Digest, Architectural Digest, 13 Aug. 2026
Definition of pad
Noun
  • Hydrogen, which has no neutrons, has roughly double that ratio of any other element, which is why water is often cited as a good space radiation shield.
    — Jacek Krywko, ArsTechnica, 13 Aug. 2026
  • Ornamental shields and coats of arms are decorated with castles, crosses, lions, flags, and crowns.
    — Tribune Content Agency, Baltimore Sun, 12 Aug. 2026
Definition of shield
Noun
  • These sensors alert drivers to obstacles and are usually mounted on bumpers.
    — Charles Singh, USA Today, 6 Aug. 2026
  • Parents are asked to stop using the crib bumpers immediately and dispose of them.
    — Hannah Sacks, PEOPLE, 6 Aug. 2026
Definition of bumper

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Cite this Entry

“Cushioning.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/cushioning. Accessed 16 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on cushioning

Nglish: Translation of cushioning for Spanish Speakers

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