Definition

A small cushion used to hold pins when they are not being used.

Example

She placed the pins neatly into the pincushion after finishing her sewing project.

Conversation

I just bought a new pincushion for my sewing projects.

Oh, nice! I need to get one too; mine is falling apart.

This one is really cute, it has a floral design.

That sounds adorable! A good pincushion makes sewing so much easier.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pincushion → It is formed from "pin" (from Old English "pinne", meaning a small pointed object) and "cushion" (from Old French "coissin", meaning a soft pillow or pad). A pincushion is a soft pad used to hold pins.

Memory Tip

Think of a soft "cushion" that holds "pins" — that's why a pincushion is a pad for keeping pins.

Visually Confused Words