Definition

Noun: A cushion, typically constructed from rubber or plastic, designed to be filled with air to achieve its shape and provide soft support.

Usage

This term refers specifically to a cushion that requires inflation. It is used to describe an object that serves as a soft seat or pad only after air is added. * The life raft was equipped with an inflatable cushion for emergency seating. * For the camping trip, she packed a compact inflatable cushion for extra comfort.

Advanced Usage

• As a safety or recreational device: Often used in contexts like boats, pools, or outdoor activities where portability and compact storage are valued.
  • The children's inflatable cushion doubled as a floating pad in the pool.

Variants and Related Words

• Air cushion: A near-synonym, sometimes used interchangeably, though "air cushion" can also refer to a technological device using a layer of air for support (e.g., in hovercrafts).
• Inflatable: (Adjective) Capable of being filled with air.
  • We brought an inflatable mattress.

Synonyms

• Air pillow
• Blow-up cushion

Notes

The term is a compound noun. Its core meaning is directly tied to the property of being "inflatable." It is distinct from solid or foam-filled cushions.

Noun

1. a cushion usually made of rubber or plastic that can be inflated