the.com/cushioning
The gentle act of softening a blow, whether physical, financial, or emotional.
means Providing a protective layer or buffer that absorbs impact, shock, or hardship.
from From cushion, via Old French coissin, from Latin coxinum, a seat-pad rooted in coxa, meaning hip — the original built-in cushion.
Dating slangKeeping backup romantic options to soften a breakup.
Running gearShoe foam saves joints from millions of impacts.
Finance termCash reserves cushion firms against sudden losses.