pillow

1 of 2

noun

pil·​low ˈpi-(ˌ)lō How to pronounce pillow (audio)
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 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
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.
Noun
Our guide spans everything from plush picks with pillow top covers to sustainably sourced down alternative mattress toppers that’ll breathe new life into your bed. Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 8 Apr. 2025 Rosanna Bassford is the founder and principal designer of Memmo Interiors. 5 Ways to Add Persimmon to Your Home Decor Incorporating persimmon into your decor—whether through paint, pillows, or accents—instantly creates a space that’s both eye-catching and inviting. Kristina McGuirk, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Apr. 2025 Other than a potentially moldy pillow, there are a few others risks to consider. Jenna Ryu, SELF, 8 Apr. 2025 They’re crafted with the brand's signature heel pillow, memory foam insole, and stretch-fit design. Toni Sutton, People.com, 6 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for pillow

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of pillow was before the 12th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pillow.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pillow. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

pillow

1 of 2 noun
pil·​low ˈpil-ō How to pronounce pillow (audio)
: 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

More from Merriam-Webster on pillow

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