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 is a common material for cushions because it is supple, breathable, long-lasting, and easily dyed in a variety of hues. For daily usage, cotton cushions provide a durable and comfortable seating option.
2. Velvet: Velvet, renowned for its luxurious gloss and texture, gives cushions a hint of sophistication. Velvet has a timeless charm that complements its lavish texture and gloss in every living area.
3. Silk: Silk cushions are lustrous and smooth, giving them an upscale, opulent impression, but they need to be handled carefully. To keep silk pillows feeling opulent, wash them by hand using a gentle detergent and try not to wring or twist them.
4. Jacquard: Jacquard cushions, which have patterns woven into the fabric, are sophisticated and frequently used in more formal environments. Their elaborate patterns lend an air of refinement to any room.
5. Polyester: Polyester is a typical fabric used in cushions because it is inexpensive, long-lasting, and stain- and fade-resistant. For individuals seeking durable and reasonably priced pillows, polyester is a sensible alternative.
6. Leather: Although they might be less comfortable in warmer regions, leather cushions are stylish, long-lasting, and easy to clean. They also provide a sense of elegance.

See also

• Bean bag chair
• Buffer
• Cushioning
• Pillow
• Sachet
• Sofa
• Zabuton
• Zafu

References

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