Definition

Noun: A box spring is a type of bed base consisting of a sturdy wooden or metal frame containing a set of coil springs, which is then upholstered with cloth. It is designed to sit beneath a mattress to provide support, absorb shock, and extend the mattress's lifespan.

Usage

A box spring is used as a foundational support system for a mattress, typically placed on top of a bed frame. * We need to buy a new box spring for our queen-sized mattress. * The mattress sits directly on the box spring, which rests on the bed frame. * Modern platform beds often eliminate the need for a traditional box spring.

Advanced Usage

• "To be on a box spring": To use a box spring as a bed base.
  • Our old mattress is just on a box spring on the floor.

Variants and Related Words

• Foundation (n): A more modern, general term for a rigid or semi-rigid bed base that supports a mattress. Many "foundations" have replaced traditional box springs, often using wood or slats instead of coils.
  • This mattress requires a solid foundation, not a flexible box spring.
• Bed base (n): The broad category of structures that support a mattress, including box springs, foundations, and platform beds.

Synonyms

• Bedspring (n): An older or more general term for a spring-based support for a mattress, which can include a box spring.
• Mattress foundation (n): A descriptive synonym commonly used in furniture retail.

Related Terms (Not Phrasal Verbs or Idioms)

• Mattress (n): The padded surface you sleep on, which is placed on top of the box spring.
• Bed frame (n): The structure that holds both the box spring and the mattress off the floor.

Noun

1. a coiled bedspring in a frame that is covered with cloth