Cushion

Not to be confused with Pillow.

Scatter cushions in an armchair

Cushion from Museum of Yugoslavia

A cushion is a soft bag of some ornamental material, usually stuffed with wool, hair, feathers, polyester staple fiber, non-woven material, cotton, or even paper torn into fragments. It may be used for sitting or kneeling upon, or to soften the hardness or angularity of a chair or couch. Decorative cushions often have a patterned cover material, and are used as decoration for furniture.

A cushion is also referred to as a bolster, hassock, headrest, a tush, and a sham.

Cushions and rugs can be used temporarily outside to soften a hard ground. They can be placed on sunloungers and used to prevent annoyances from moist grass and biting insects. Some dialects of English use this word to refer to throw pillows as well.

The cushion is a very ancient article of furniture; the inventories of the contents of palaces and great houses in the early Middle Ages constantly made mention of them. Cushions were then often of great size, covered with leather, and firm enough to serve as a seat, but the steady tendency of all furniture has been to grow smaller with time. Today, the cushion is considered an upholstery item.

Etymology

The word cushion comes from Middle English cushin, from Anglo-French cussin, quissin, from Vulgar Latin *coxinus, and from Latin coxa, hip. The first known use of the word cushion was in the 14th century. Cushions are known for being comfortable and soft.

Materials

There are so many different types of materials available for cushions. Some of them are:

1. Cotton: Cotton cushions are popular for their breathability and comfort. They offer a soft and natural feel, making them ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. Cotton cushions are easy to maintain and often come in a wide range of colors and patterns to suit various décor styles.
2. Velvet: Velvet cushions exude luxury and elegance with their plush texture and rich appearance. They add a touch of sophistication to any space and are favored for their smoothness and sheen. Velvet cushions are great for adding warmth and a tactile element to sofas, chairs, and beds.
3. Polyester: Polyester cushions are known for their durability and resilience. They are highly resistant to wrinkles, shrinking, and fading, making them suitable for high-traffic areas and outdoor use. Polyester cushions are available in a variety of textures and colors, offering a practical choice for modern living.
4. Leatherette: Leatherette cushions mimic the look and feel of genuine leather but are typically more affordable and easier to maintain. They provide a sleek and polished appearance, adding a contemporary touch to furniture. Leatherette cushions are resistant to stains and moisture, making them suitable for households with children or pets.

See also

• Bean bag chair
• Buffer
• Car seat
• Cushioning
• Furniture
• Lumbar
• Pillow
• Sachet
• Sofa
• Zabuton
• Zafu

References

• Chisholm, Hugh, ed. (1911). "Cushion" . Encyclopædia Britannica (11th ed.). Cambridge University Press.