Definition of cushion

The word "cushion" has its roots in the Old French "cucheon," meaning "cushion" or "pillow." This Old French term is derived from the Latin "cuscina," which referred to a soft, padded couch or a bed of feathers. In Middle English (circa 1300-1500), the term "cushion" evolved to describe a pad or a filling, often made of feathers, wool, or hair, used to soften a seat or a bed. In the 16th century, the term began to be used more broadly to refer to any soft, padded object used for support or comfort. Today, a cushion can refer to a wide range of objects, from a soft, circular pillow to a supportive pad for sitting or lying down. Despite its evolution over the centuries, the word "cushion" remains closely tied to its original meaning of providing comfort and support.