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
Count seats against your list first, then fill any gaps with floor cushions or a blanket zone instead of buying furniture. — Lauren Schuster, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 19 Oct. 2026 His handsomeness was part of the joke, as well as the cushion for it. — Owen Gleiberman, Variety, 16 Oct. 2026
Verb
Using motion sensors and patented algorithms, the belt distinguishes everyday movements from a serious hip-impacting fall and deploys inflatable airbags, cushioning the hips, in less than 90 milliseconds—before the wearer hits the ground. — Lauryn Higgins, Time, 15 Oct. 2026 The remarks show that policymakers are moving from debating whether AI will disrupt jobs to deciding how to cushion the fallout, at a time when rapidly aging populations, particularly in Asia, already threaten to shrink workforces. — Anniek Bao, CNBC, 12 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for cushion
Recent Examples of Synonyms for cushion
  1. buffer
  2. soften
  3. pad
  4. shield
  5. bumper
Noun
  • While this trend signals mounting pressure across financing conditions, analysts note that a modest retrenchment in market risk exposure represents a healthy calibration, serving as a buffer to mitigate concentrated risk spillovers.
    — , CNBC, 22 Oct. 2026
  • The assessment is the latest dose of bad news for coral reefs, which are critical sources for seafood and tourism and often serve as buffers from coastal erosion and storms.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 22 Oct. 2026
Definition of buffer
Verb
  • But on that score, too, Jackson tries to soften the caricature of the billionaire executive.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 24 Oct. 2026
  • Add the shallot to the skillet, along with the salt and black pepper, and cook for 1 minute, or until the shallot starts to soften.
    — Candy Hom, AJC.com, 24 Oct. 2026
Definition of soften
Noun
  • The sensor has a 90-degree horizontal and 50-degree vertical field of view and is powered by a single CR123A battery, which is included along with adhesive mounting pads and a user guide.
    — John R. Delaney, PC Magazine, 22 Oct. 2026
  • Brady Tkachuk quickly spun to face Ullmark and shoved the puck under the goalie’s pads for his seventh goal of the season.
    — Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 22 Oct. 2026
Definition of pad
Noun
  • Each panel is different, their subtly shifting shapes recalling those of the shuttle’s heat-shield tiles.
    — Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 27 Oct. 2026
  • Lily sacrificed her life on that day to protect wee Harry, just a baby at the time of her death, with a love shield.
    — Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 27 Oct. 2026
Definition of shield
Noun
  • With six laps to go and David Gilliland leading the pack, Logano had Carson Hocevar on his bumper and Ross Chastain in front of him.
    — Ryan Gaydos OutKick, FOXNews.com, 25 Oct. 2026
  • Such armor typically consists of an outer sacrificial bumper that is separated from the main craft by space.
    — Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 25 Oct. 2026
Definition of bumper

Browse Nearby Words

curvy
cushion
cushioned
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cushion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/cushion. Accessed 28 Oct. 2026.

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