mattress

noun

mat·​tress ˈma-trəs How to pronounce mattress (audio)
plural mattresses
Synonyms of mattressnext
1
a
: a fabric case filled with resilient material (such as cotton, hair, feathers, foam rubber, or an arrangement of coiled springs) used either alone as a bed or on a bed frame
b
: a soft, airtight case that is designed to be inflated and used as a bed : air mattress
2
: a device (as of interwoven brush and poles) used to protect a shoreline, bank, or streambed from erosion

Examples of mattress 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.
Krinberg says that if a mattress is flippable, both sides will be designed for sleeping. — Jamie Cuccinelli, Martha Stewart, 3 Sep. 2026 The best daybeds are chameleonic pieces that double as a luxurious windowside lounge, a sleeper sofa, or an extra spot for last-minute overnight guests—no need to shop for a new mattress just yet. — Yelena Moroz Alpert, Architectural Digest, 2 Sep. 2026 Now through Labor Day, find countless deals on must-haves and wants for your home and kitchen, including decor, appliances, mattresses, furniture, bedding and so much more. — ABC News, 2 Sep. 2026 When forced to pick just one intervention this summer, put the money on the mattress, not the wall. — Ryan Brennan, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 2 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for mattress

Word History

Etymology

Middle English materas, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin materacium, from Arabic maṭraḥ place where something is thrown

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of mattress was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing mattress

Browse Nearby Words

mattrass
mattress
mattress pad
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Mattress.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mattress. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

mattress

noun
mat·​tress ˈma-trəs How to pronounce mattress (audio)
1
: a fabric case filled with springy material used as a bed or on a bedstead
2
: a sack that can be filled with air or water and used as a mattress

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