Plural of comforter; either thick quilted blankets for beds, or people who provide comfort and consolation to others.
From 'comforter' (one who comforts, or a quilted covering), from 'comfort' (Latin 'confortare': strengthen) + '-er' suffix. The blanket meaning emerged in America in the 1800s.
The word 'comforter' has split into two completely different meanings—one describes a cozy object you sleep under, the other a person who listens to your problems—yet English speakers instantly understand which meaning is intended from context.
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