cushion Definition

cushion
noun

1. A fabric case stuffed with soft material, used for making a seat comfortable, for kneeling on, etc.
2. A thick pad or something having a similar function.
3. Something that gives protection from shock, reduces unpleasant effects, etc.
4. The resilient inner rim of a billiard table.

verb cushioned, cushioning

1. To reduce the unpleasant or violent effect of something.

Thesaurus: dampen, soften, allay, absorb.
2. To protect from shock, injury or the extremes of distress.

Thesaurus: protect, support, buttress.
3. To provide or furnish with cushions.

Etymology: 14c: from French cuissin, ultimately from Latin coxa hip.