Definition

Adjective 1. Soft and yielding like a cushion: Having a soft, padded, or springy quality that provides comfort or support, similar to a cushion. 2. Made softer or more comfortable with padding: Describing something that has been made less hard or more comfortable through the addition of soft material.

Usage

The adjective "cushiony" is used to describe the physical quality of an object's surface or material. It emphasizes a pleasant, soft, and often supportive feel. It is typically used in a positive, descriptive context.

Examples

• Describing a surface:
  • The cushiony grass felt wonderful under our feet after the long hike.
  • She sank into the cushiony armchair with a sigh of relief.
• Describing a texture or feel:
  • The mattress was wonderfully cushiony, providing excellent support for my back.
  • I love these new running shoes; the soles are so cushiony.

Advanced Usage

• Comparative and Superlative Forms: "cushionier", "cushioniest".
  • Of the two sofas, the older one is actually cushionier.
  • This is the cushioniest pillow I have ever owned.
• Metaphorical Use: While less common, "cushiony" can be used metaphorically to describe something that provides a soft, protective, or gentle effect.
  • His cushiony words did little to soften the blow of the bad news. (Here, it suggests softness in manner, not physical texture.)

Variants and Related Words

• Cushion (n/v): The noun refers to a soft bag of material used for sitting or leaning on. The verb means to soften the impact of something.
  • Noun: She placed a cushion on the hard wooden bench.
  • Verb: The company's savings cushioned the blow of the economic downturn.
• Cushioned (adj): Describes something that has been provided with a cushion or padding.
  • The seats were well-cushioned for the long flight.

Synonyms

• Soft
• Padded
• Springy
• Plush
• Yielding
• Spongy

Antonyms

• Hard
• Firm
• Unyielding
• Solid

Related Phrases

• Cushiony feel: A common phrase to describe the tactile sensation.
  • The carpet had a lovely cushiony feel.
• Cushiony comfort: Emphasizes the comfort provided by the softness.
  • The sofa promised cushiony comfort for movie nights.

Adjective

1. softened by the addition of cushions or padding