Soft pillows or pads used for sitting, leaning, or decorative purposes on furniture. Also serves as a verb meaning to soften the impact of something or provide protection.
From Old French coissin, from Vulgar Latin coxinum, derived from Latin coxa meaning 'hip' or 'thigh.' Originally referred to a pad for the hips when sitting.
The word cushion literally comes from the Latin word for 'hip bone,' because early cushions were specifically designed to make sitting more comfortable for the hips and thighs. The phrase 'cushioning the blow' extends this physical comfort concept into emotional and financial contexts, showing how furniture terms often become metaphors.
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