cushion

cush-ion · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A soft bag filled with material, used for sitting on or leaning against.

  2. 2.

    To soften the effect of something.

  3. 3.

    Something that provides protection or reduces impact.

  4. 4.

    To protect from impact or adverse effects.

  5. 5.

    The elastic rim of a billiard table.

Forms

plural: cushions

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    cushion the blow — to reduce the impact of bad news
  • •
    on the cushion — (billiards) against the cushion rail
  • •
    safety cushion — a reserve for protection

Related words

See also: buffer, pad, pillow
Synonyms: bolster, pad, pillow

Etymology

From Old French "coissin" (cushion), ultimately from Latin "coxa" (hip, thigh), via Vulgar Latin "*coxinum" (something to sit on).