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
The lightweight mesh is breathable, the durable leather provides stability and the foam cushion makes for a soft feel when on your feet. — Lauryn Jiles, Miami Herald, 3 Mar. 2025 Case in point: when Camilla Cabello giddily greeted Olivia Rodrigo, who was sitting on a cushion in the center of the room, a photographer immediately appeared to snap a photo. — Angelique Jackson, Variety, 3 Mar. 2025
Verb
Sure, their global dominance and new Blackwell line will cushion the blow, but the real question will be how China responds. — Kristina Partsinevelos, CNBC, 27 Feb. 2025 That’s because the squishy midsole that cushions each footfall flattens with time, offloading the brunt of the impact onto your feet. — Erica Sloan, SELF, 21 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for cushion
Recent Examples of Synonyms for cushion
  1. buffer
  2. soften
  3. pad
  4. shield
  5. bumper
Noun
  • And don't forget to tend to your emergency savings, given that having a cash buffer can help in times of financial stress and keep you from raiding your retirement account, noted Transamerica's Collinson.
    — Aimee Picchi, CBS News, 17 Mar. 2025
  • Another option that offers even more downside protection are buffer ETFs, which help investors to potentially avoid substantial losses, capping downside risk via options.
    — Anna Gleason, CNBC, 16 Mar. 2025
Definition of buffer
Verb
  • Reduce heat to medium, and cook, uncovered, until vegetables soften slightly, 8 to 10 minutes.
    — Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 17 Mar. 2025
  • The data, released by the Census Bureau, will offer a look at how Americans spent their money during a month in which consumer confidence was softening amid tariff uncertainty.
    — Kevin Stankiewicz,Matthew J. Belvedere, CNBC, 16 Mar. 2025
Definition of soften
Noun
  • The Future May Be Port-Free Just imagine: no USB-C connector at the base of the phone, with only charging through a charging pad as an option, and with data synced exclusively wirelessly.
    — David Phelan, Forbes, 19 Mar. 2025
  • Meanwhile, the keyboard supports four-zone RGB backlighting, and HP comfortably fit (not squeezed) a number pad onto this system.
    — Matthew Buzzi, PCMAG, 18 Mar. 2025
Definition of pad
Noun
  • Here’s what to know about Chief Justice John Roberts and his complicated relationship with President Donald Trump: A history of enabling Trump's legal shield Roberts’ tenure as Chief Justice has coincided with some of the most tumultuous legal battles involving a sitting President.
    — Nik Popli, TIME, 19 Mar. 2025
  • The photon shields look like an Elizabethan collar.
    — Ars Technica, Ars Technica, 13 Mar. 2025
Definition of shield
Noun
  • Around one-fifth of red wolves meet their end on a bumper, many on US 64, a primary route that vacationers take to the Outer Banks, the picturesque chain of barrier islands that line North Carolina’s seaboard.
    — Ben Goldfarb, Vox, 14 Mar. 2025
  • The front bumper of the suspect’s car was damaged, according to police.
    — City News Service, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 Mar. 2025
Definition of bumper

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Cite this Entry

“Cushion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/cushion. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

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