pillow

1 of 2

noun

pil·​low ˈpi-(ˌ)lō 

1

a

: a support for the head of a reclining person

especially : one consisting of a cloth bag filled with feathers, down, sponge rubber, or plastic fiber

b

: something resembling a pillow especially in form

2

: a cushion or pad tightly stuffed and used as a support for the design and tools in making lace with a bobbin

pillowy

ˈpi-lə-wē 

adjective

pillow

2 of 2

verb

pillowed; pillowing; pillows

transitive verb

1

: to rest or lay on or as if on a pillow

2

: to serve as a pillow for

intransitive verb

: to lay or rest one's head on or as if on a pillow

Examples of pillow in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

The pillow is comfortable and supportive thanks to its memory foam padding and 360-degree design. —Gabriella Maestri, Travel + Leisure, 2 Nov. 2024

The cases will fit regular pillows, along with all sizes of Hest’s pillows. —Jakob Schiller, Outside Online, 1 Nov. 2024

Complementing those age-old features are large-format contemporary artworks, tinges of brass and gold metal, and pops of vibrant color on the pillows and rug. —Emma Reynolds, Robb Report, 29 Oct. 2024

Other great gift options include cute maternity clothes and other essentials that expecting mothers need to accommodate a growing belly and, frankly, near-constant discomfort (think: pregnancy pillows). —Malia Griggs, Glamour, 25 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Middle English pilwe, from Old English pyle (akin to Old High German pfuliwi), from Latin pulvinus

First Known Use

Noun

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Verb

1629, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Phrases Containing pillow

• pillow block
• pillow fight
• pillow lace
• pillow slip
• pillow talk
• throw pillow

Kids Definition

pillow

1 of 2 noun

pil·​low ˈpil-ō 

: a bag filled with soft or springy material used as a cushion usually for the head of a person lying down

pillow

2 of 2 verb

1

: to place on or as if on a pillow

2

: to serve as a pillow for