cushion - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
cushion Word Meanings
- a soft object to support or rest on
- something that provides comfort or padding
- to make something softer or more comfortable
cushion Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
cushion Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈkʊʃ.ən/
US
/ˈkʊʃ.ən/
cushion Word Etymology
cushion: from Old French 'cochier' (to cushion) derived from Latin 'cūsiō' (to set down). Memory image: Picture a soft cushion being placed on a chair and inviting you to sit down comfortably.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Cushion is a soft object used for seating or support. As a noun, it can be a small pillow or pad that makes a chair, stool, or couch more comfortable, or a decorative accessory on furniture. As a verb, to cushion means to soften or protect something by adding padding or by reducing impact, such as cushioning a fall or cushioning criticism in speech. You’ll see cushion covers and cushioning material in stores, and phrases like cushion padding and cushion seat. The English etymology comes from Old French 'cochier' (to cushion) derived from Latin 'cūsiō' (to set down). A memory image of a soft cushion placed on a chair invites you to sit down comfortably.
Usage Reminders
- • Know when cushion is a noun vs a verb.
- • Distinguish cushion from pillow; use cushion for padding, not simply for sleeping.
- • Remember common compounds: cushion cover, cushioning material.
- • Use cushion to describe soft padding or to soften impact.
- • Watch for figurative use: cushion the blow, cushion a criticism.
- • Practice everyday phrases with furniture and seating contexts.
Common Misconceptions
- Cushion always means a pillow used for sleeping.
- Pillow and cushion are exactly interchangeable in all contexts.
- To cushion only refers to soft padding in furniture, never to speech or actions.
- Once you learn cushion, you don’t need to learn related terms like cushion cover.
- Cushion cannot be used figuratively in English.
Thinking Differences
English speakers tend to separate cushion as a physical object (noun) from to cushion as a verb meaning to soften or protect. Learners often confuse it with pillow or use the verb in unrelated contexts, so practice distinguishing padding vs protection and note common collocations.
Learning Tips
- Practice noun vs verb forms in simple sentences.
- Visualize a chair or sofa to anchor padding sense.
- Learn common compounds (cushion cover, cushioning material).
- Use both literal and figurative examples (cushion the blow).
- Compare cushion with pillow to fix misconceptions.
- Create mini dialogues about furniture shopping and comfort.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'cushion' refer to?
A.Type of fruit
B.Vehicle accessory
C.Heavy metal
D.Soft pillow or pad
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following is a correct usage of the word 'cushion'?
A.The cushion was made of solid gold.
B.They cushioned the goal with an extra point.
C.He cushioned the impact by jumping off the high wall.
D.She used a cushion to sit comfortably on the bench.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for the word 'cushion'?
A.Pillow
B.Chair
C.Stiff
D.Metal
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an opposite (antonym) for the word 'cushion'?
A.Soft
B.Comfortable
C.Light
D.Hard
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you commonly find a cushion?
A.Dentist's office waiting room
B.Living room sofa
C.Library study area
D.Outdoor garden
Related Listening
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