The spelling of "scatter cushion" is quite straightforward but the pronunciation may vary. The word "scatter" is pronounced /ˈskætər/ and refers to the act of scattering or dispersing. "Cushion" is pronounced /ˈkʊʃən/ and means a soft object used for comfort or support. Thus, a "scatter cushion" is a cushion that is designed to be scattered or placed randomly as decorative pieces around a room. The spelling and pronunciation may differ in different English-speaking regions, but the basic definition remains the same.
A scatter cushion, also commonly referred to as a throw pillow or decorative pillow, is a small cushion typically used to decorate and enhance the comfort of furniture such as sofas, armchairs, or beds. It is designed to be placed casually and randomly, adding a touch of aesthetic appeal and creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere within a space.
Scatter cushions are usually smaller in size compared to regular cushions and come in a variety of shapes, such as squares, rectangles, circles, or even novelty shapes. They are often made from soft and plush materials like cotton, velvet, or silk, with a luxurious filling like feathers, polyester, or foam to provide a comfortable and supportive feel when leaned against or hugged.
These cushions are often adorned with decorative elements, including embroidery, tassels, fringes, buttons, sequins, or patterns, adding texture, color, and visual interest to the overall decor. The wide range of designs, colors, and patterns available in scatter cushions allows for endless possibilities in coordinating or contrasting them with existing furniture, curtains, carpets, or other elements in a room.
Scatter cushions not only serve as decorative accents but also offer additional lumbar support or comfort to users. They can be easily moved or repositioned to suit individual preferences or changing interior designs. Furthermore, scatter cushions can serve as a creative and cost-effective way to update or refresh the look and feel of a space without having to make significant changes to the furniture itself.
The word "scatter cushion" is a compound noun consisting of two individual words: "scatter" and "cushion".
- "Scatter" derives from the Middle English word "scateren", which meant "to disperse or separate". It comes from the Old Norse word "skatthra", meaning "to scatter" or "to strew". The Old Norse word, in turn, originates from Proto-Germanic "skattōną".
- "Cushion" derives from the Old French word "coissin", which means "a pillow" or "cushion". It is further derived from the Latin word "coxinus", meaning "mattress" or "large cushion". The Latin word ultimately traces back to the Greek word "kókkhos", meaning "anything stuffed".