# padded cell

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/padded-cell
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

A room in a mental hospital lined with padding on the walls, and often a cushioned floor, in order to prevent occupants from injuring themselves.

## Examples

- The patient was moved to a padded cell for his own safety.
- The doctors decided to place the agitated patient in a padded cell to prevent him from hurting himself during the night.
- After the patient began striking the walls in a fit of distress, the staff had no choice but to transfer him to a padded cell for his protection.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.