English Reference
adjective · noun

plush

adj. · n.
US /ˈpɫəʃ/ UK /plˈʌʃ/ plush UK spelling plushed, plushes

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    adj.expensive, comfortable, and of high quality.

    adj.characterised by luxury, opulence, or expensive taste; often used to describe interiors or accommodations.

    Simple

    The hotel lobby was very plush, with gold decorations and soft velvet chairs.

    In context

    The executive suite featured plush furnishings and a panoramic view of the skyline, justifying its premium nightly rate.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    adj.having a thick, soft surface that feels good to touch.

    adj.having a long, soft, and dense nap or pile, similar to velvet but typically deeper.

    Simple

    I love walking barefoot on this plush new carpet.

    In context

    The designer specified a plush mohair fabric for the upholstery to ensure maximum tactile comfort for the clients.

    softfluffyvelvety
  3. 03 B1 Intermediate American English

    n.a soft toy filled with air or soft material, usually for children.

    n.a soft toy, typically an animal, constructed from plush fabric and stuffed with flexible material.

    Simple

    The toddler wouldn't go to sleep without her favourite bear plush.

    In context

    The gift shop was filled with various plushies, ranging from traditional teddy bears to modern cartoon characters.

    stuffed animalsoft toy
  4. 04 C1 Advanced Technical

    n.a type of cloth that is very soft and has a thick surface.

    n.a textile fabric with a nap or shag on one side that is longer and softer than velvet.

    Simple

    The curtains were made of a heavy red plush that blocked out all the light.

    In context

    The restoration committee insisted on sourcing authentic silk plush to match the original nineteenth-century theatre seats.

    Usage

    Often used as an uncountable noun when referring to the material itself.

    velvetvelour

From French peluche (“fluff, plush”). The fact that historically (in past centuries) plush upholstery was so expensive as to be socially exclusive undoubtedly connects the senses of "luxurious" and "soft".

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin French peluche
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated