Definition

Noun: A mattress that can be stored flat and inflated for use. It is typically made of flexible, airtight material and is filled with air to provide a cushioned sleeping or resting surface.

Usage

An "air mattress" is used as a portable, temporary sleeping surface. It is commonly used for camping, accommodating overnight guests, or in situations where a permanent bed is not available. The term is used as a countable noun.

Examples

• We brought an air mattress for our camping trip.
• For the sleepover, they inflated an air mattress in the living room.
• She stores the air mattress under the bed when it's not in use.

Advanced Usage

• "Blow up an air mattress": To inflate it, typically using a pump or one's breath.
  • It took twenty minutes to blow up the air mattress.
• "Deflate an air mattress": To let the air out for storage.
  • Remember to deflate the air mattress completely before packing it.

Variants and Related Words

• Air bed: A common synonym, though sometimes used to describe a more permanent, raised version with a built-in pump.
• Inflatable mattress: A more descriptive synonym that emphasizes the inflation mechanism.

Synonyms

• Inflatable bed
• Camping mattress

Related Phrases

• Sleeping pad: A thinner, often insulated pad used primarily for camping, not typically called an "air mattress."
• Pump: The device used to inflate the mattress.

Noun

1. a mattress that can be stored flat and inflated for use