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Definition of pincushion

pincushion

/ˈpɪnˌkʊʃ.ən/
pin · cush · ion
Plural:pincushions
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pincushion Lexical Profile

pincushion Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A small, tightly stuffed cushion used for holding pins and needles safely and conveniently when sewing.

Example

"She reached for the velvet pincushion to secure the fabric before hemming the dress."

2

A person or thing that is the target of repeated attacks, criticism, or literal punctures.

Example

"During the aggressive press conference, the embattled executive felt like a pincushion for the reporters' pointed questions."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for pincushion

• Nearby Words

pin
pinatubo
pincho
pincushion
pincushion flower
pine
pine nut

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the late 16th century, formed as a transparent compound of the English words 'pin' and 'cushion'.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Pincushion. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 17, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/pincushion
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