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June 20, 2021 Word of the Day

cushion /ˈkʊʃən/ noun
cushion
/ˈkʊʃən/
noun

plural cushions

Wicker chairs with seat cushions
Wicker chairs with seat cushions
Definition of CUSHION

[count]

1 : a soft object or part that is used to make something (such as a seat) more comfortable or to protect a surface from damage : a soft pillow, pad, etc.

  • a seat/sofa cushion

  • There is a cushion under the rug to protect the floor.

  • a cushion of air [=a layer of air that provides support or protection to something]

2 : any one of the rubber parts that the ball bounces off along the inner edges of a billiard table

3 : something (such as an extra amount of money) that you can use to reduce the bad effect of something (such as an unexpected problem or expense)

  • We didn't have a financial cushion when my husband lost his job.

— often + against

  • We use our savings as a cushion against major expenses.

4 : a lead in a game or competition that is large enough to allow the leader to feel confident about winning — usually singular

  • The team enjoyed a 6–0 cushion in the last inning.

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