mattress

noun

mat·​tress ˈma-trəs 

plural mattresses

1

a

: a fabric case filled with resilient material (such as cotton, hair, feathers, foam rubber, or an arrangement of coiled springs) used either alone as a bed or on a bedstead

b

: a soft, airtight case that is designed to be inflated and used as a bed : air mattress

2

: a device (as of interwoven brush and poles) used to protect a shoreline, bank, or streambed from erosion

Examples of mattress in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Also, consider adding a topper to your mattress for an extra layer of comfort during all those hours spent in bed. —Amy Panos, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 Feb. 2025

The modern Presidents Day weekend is often recognized as a time to shop for mattresses, appliances, electronics, and more. —Avery Lotz, Axios, 17 Feb. 2025

Superior Court of California, Placer County A few yards away, in a clearing among the trees, her grave lay hidden under an old mattress. —Natalie Morales, CBS News, 15 Feb. 2025

Plus, twice a year, the contractor will by appointment pick up the following items: mattresses, furniture, stoves, refrigerators, air conditioners, microwaves, water heaters, scrap metal, televisions or computers. —U T Readers, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English materas, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin materacium, from Arabic maṭraḥ place where something is thrown

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing mattress

• air mattress
• mattress pad

Kids Definition

mattress

noun

mat·​tress ˈma-trəs 

1

: a fabric case filled with springy material used as a bed or on a bedstead

2

: a sack that can be filled with air or water and used as a mattress