cushion

B1 · Intermediate Countable noun

n. something that protects you from a hard hit or a sudden shock.

n. a layer of material or air designed to absorb the force of a physical impact.

“The thick grass acted as a cushion when the child fell off the swing.”

“Modern running shoes incorporate a gel cushion in the heel to reduce the repetitive stress on the runner's joints.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun Finance

n. an extra amount of something, like money or points, that keeps you safe if something goes wrong.

n. a reserve of a resource, such as capital or time, that provides protection against unforeseen difficulties or losses.

“We have a small financial cushion in the bank for emergencies.”

“The team maintained a three-goal cushion heading into the final ten minutes, allowing them to play more defensively.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate

v. to make a hit or a bad situation feel less painful or difficult.

v. to mitigate the effects of a physical impact or a negative event.

“The new tax laws were designed to cushion the blow for small businesses.”

“The specialized packaging was engineered to cushion the delicate electronic components during international transit.”

C1 · Advanced Formal

v. to put soft pads on something to make it comfortable.

v. to furnish or equip an object with cushions or soft padding.

“The royal box was cushioned with red silk to welcome the guests.”

“The artisan carefully cushioned the wooden bench with hand-stitched leather to ensure maximum comfort for the patrons.”