CUSHIONING Synonyms: 95 Similar and Opposite Words

cushioning 1 of 3

noun

Definition of cushioning

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

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

These sneakers have earned a loyal following among those who seek just the right balance of soft cushioning and structure. — Tanya Sharma, PEOPLE, 22 July 2026 Traditional midsoles were made of ethylene-vinyl acetate and could be higher, to provide more cushioning, or lower, to save weight. — Scott Douglas, The Atlantic, 17 July 2026

Verb

But imports of solar, batteries and EVs have been cushioning the blow. — Julia Simon, NPR, 9 July 2026 For comfort during holiday celebrations, grab the KuaiLu Arch-Support Flip-Flops, which feature cushioning that holds up to 20,000-step days. — Madeline Merinuk, PEOPLE, 2 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for cushioning

Recent Examples of Synonyms for cushioning

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

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

Noun

Despite the Middle East conflict, spending has remained resilient, in part thanks to bigger tax refunds this year, which provided a cushion for consumers against higher gasoline prices stemming from the war.

— Reuters, NBC news, 30 July 2026
Despite the Middle East conflict, spending has remained resilient, in part thanks to bigger tax refunds this year, which provided a cushion for consumers against higher gasoline prices stemming from the war.

— Lucia Mutikani, USA Today, 30 July 2026

Definition of cushion

Adjective

Megrahi’s second appeal was later dropped as he was released on compassionate grounds due to a terminal prostate cancer diagnosis in 2009, according to NPR.

— Keith Langston, PEOPLE, 30 July 2026
Ultimately, navigating these challenging times with patience, humility, and authentic presence builds a resilient and compassionate organizational culture.

— Mena Mirhom, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026

Definition of compassionate

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

cushioned

cushioning

cushionings

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“Cushioning.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/cushioning. Accessed 1 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of cushioning

noun

adjective

verb

Example Sentences

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