mattress

/ˈmætɹɪs/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: mattresses · mattressing · mattressed

Sense 1

Meaning · English

A pad on which a person can recline and sleep, usually having an inner section of coiled springs covered with foam or other cushioning material then enclosed with cloth fabric.

Noun

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

A form of retaining wall used to support foundations or an embankment

Noun

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

To cover with a thick layer, like a mattress; to blanket.

Verb

Examples

A comfortable litter of pine needles had mattressed the ground and spreading branches had been a canopy overhead.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “mattress” mean?

A pad on which a person can recline and sleep, usually having an inner section of coiled springs covered with foam or other cushioning material then enclosed with cloth fabric.

Is “mattress” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.