padding

noun

pad·​ding ˈpa-diŋ How to pronounce padding (audio)
: material with which something is padded

Examples of padding in a Sentence

the padding on the seat of the chairs These shoes have extra padding in the heel. If you remove the padding from his speech you can see that he offers no new ideas.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Their padding is comparable to that of Hoka’s bestselling Bondi—and all that foam is stacked high in the brand’s structured H-frame that prevents rolling. Sara Coughlin, SELF, 24 July 2025 Additionally, the new collection features socks specifically crafted for active consumers, offering arch support to enhance stability, along with a cushioned sole equipped with extra padding to absorb impact. Fairchild Studio, Footwear News, 21 July 2025 And perhaps most importantly, manage your cash runway with padding. Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 17 July 2025 The Alaïa's Pieter Mulier look consisted of a crop top and low-rise skirt featuring a sculptural roll of padding around the waistband. Catherine Santino, People.com, 15 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for padding

Word History

First Known Use

1640, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of padding was in 1640

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Padding.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/padding. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

padding

noun
pad·​ding
ˈpad-iŋ
: material used to pad something

More from Merriam-Webster on padding

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!