as in softened
to lessen the shock of
a substantial nest egg helped to cushion the sudden loss of her job
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Recent Examples of cushioned
China, the world's largest crude importer, has cushioned the worst of the energy shock through its strategic oil stockpiles and a diversified mix of renewable energy sources — though economists warn the buffer has limits as the disruption prolongs.
—
Anniek Bao, CNBC, 11 May 2026
The buildable, glossy pigments are cushioned with shea butter, squalane, and passionfruit extract for long-lasting moisture.
—Jailynn Taylor, Allure, 10 May 2026
These sandals combine standout feminine style — including details like tiny flowers and a slightly elevated heel — with serious support, thanks to a contoured footbed and thickly cushioned design.
—Aashna Gheewalla, PEOPLE, 7 May 2026
This Melissa model is a crowd favorite for a reason — it’s structured, sophisticated, impressively cushioned, and composed of cream-of-the-crop leather that will last you for many years (if not decades) of careful wear.
—Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 7 May 2026
Larger airlines have cushioned the blow somewhat by hiking some fees and fares and cutting flights.
—Chris Isidore, CNN Money, 2 May 2026
The shoes also have cushioned insoles with lightweight support for all-day comfort, from the course to the clubhouse.
—Melony Forcier, Travel + Leisure, 25 Apr. 2026
Officials believe the impact was partially cushioned by a patch of mulch on the ground.
—Aaron Parseghian, CBS News, 17 Apr. 2026
My fall was cushioned by lots of Dominos and DoorDash.
—Laura House, Los Angeles Times, 17 Apr. 2026
Anniek Bao, CNBC, 11 May 2026
The buildable, glossy pigments are cushioned with shea butter, squalane, and passionfruit extract for long-lasting moisture.
—Jailynn Taylor, Allure, 10 May 2026
These sandals combine standout feminine style — including details like tiny flowers and a slightly elevated heel — with serious support, thanks to a contoured footbed and thickly cushioned design.
—Aashna Gheewalla, PEOPLE, 7 May 2026
This Melissa model is a crowd favorite for a reason — it’s structured, sophisticated, impressively cushioned, and composed of cream-of-the-crop leather that will last you for many years (if not decades) of careful wear.
—Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 7 May 2026
Larger airlines have cushioned the blow somewhat by hiking some fees and fares and cutting flights.
—Chris Isidore, CNN Money, 2 May 2026
The shoes also have cushioned insoles with lightweight support for all-day comfort, from the course to the clubhouse.
—Melony Forcier, Travel + Leisure, 25 Apr. 2026
Officials believe the impact was partially cushioned by a patch of mulch on the ground.
—Aaron Parseghian, CBS News, 17 Apr. 2026
My fall was cushioned by lots of Dominos and DoorDash.
—Laura House, Los Angeles Times, 17 Apr. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for cushioned
softened
Verb
-
In a small dry skillet, roast onion and jalapeño over medium, turning once or twice, until softened and browned in spots, 8 to 10 minutes.—
Rick Bayless,
Midwest Living,
13 May 2026
-
The question is why the resale market softened in the first place.—
Dan Zaksheske OutKick,
FOXNews.com,
13 May 2026
Cite this Entry
“Cushioned.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/cushioned. Accessed 22 May. 2026.
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