pillow
4 synonyms for pillow, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A soft cushion used to support the head while lying down.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use pillow
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
fluff a pillow
pillow talk
throw pillow
Etymology
From Old English pyle, ultimately from a Latin word for cushion, related to the word for dust (originally the stuffing material).
Full origin of pillow →Frequently asked questions
What does “pillow” mean?
The word “pillow” means a soft cushion used to support the head while lying down. In plain terms, the soft cushion you rest your head on.
How do you pronounce “pillow”?
“Pillow” is pronounced PIHL-oh (/ˈpɪl.oʊ/ [ˈpʰɪɫ.ö̞] in IPA).
How do you use “pillow” in a sentence?
Here is “pillow” used in a sentence: “He fluffed his pillow before settling in for the night.”
What part of speech is “pillow”?
“Pillow” is a noun.
Where does the word “pillow” come from?
The word “pillow” comes from Latin. From Old English pyle, ultimately from a Latin word for cushion, related to the word for dust (originally the stuffing material).
Is “pillow” a common word?
“Pillow” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
What is the difference between a "pillow" and a "cushion"?
A pillow is a soft cushion specifically used to support the head while lying down, usually on a bed. A cushion is a broader term for any soft padded item used for comfort or support, such as those on sofas and chairs; a pillow is essentially a cushion made for sleeping.
What is the difference between a "pillow" and a "bolster"?
A pillow is a soft cushion for supporting the head, typically rectangular. A bolster is a long, firm, cylindrical cushion used for extra support along the back or under the knees, or as a decorative accent across a bed.
What are the common types of pillows?
Pillows come in several forms based on their filling and purpose, including down or feather pillows, memory foam pillows, and body pillows. All share the core function of a soft cushion that supports the head while lying down.
