cushion

cushion [koosh′ən]

n.

[ME cuisshin < OFr coissin < ML coxinum, altered (after L coxa, hip) < Gallo-Roman * culcinum, for L culcita, cushion, QUILT]

1. a pillow or soft pad for sitting or kneeling on, or reclining against; specif., a removable one forming part of a sofa, chair, etc.

2. a thing like a cushion in shape, softness, or use, as a small pillow used in lace-making, padding of various sorts, etc.

3. a fatty or fibrous padlike part of the body

4. anything serving to absorb shock, as air or steam in some machines, the elastic inner rim of a billiard table, or a soft, padded insole

5. anything that moderates an adverse effect, relieves a distressing condition, provides comfort, etc.

vt.

1. to provide with a cushion or cushions

2.

a) to seat or set on a cushion

b) to prop up with a cushion or cushions

3. to hide or suppress, as if under a cushion

4. to absorb (shock or noise)

5. to act as a cushion, as in protecting from shock or injury, moderating ill effects, relieving distress, etc. [the bush cushioned his fall]