pincushion

[ pin-koosh-uhn ]

noun

1. a small cushion into which pins are stuck until needed.

pincushion

/ ˈpɪnˌkʊʃən /

noun

1. a small well-padded cushion in which pins are stuck ready for use

Word History and Origins

Origin of pincushion¹

First recorded in 1625–35; pin + cushion

Example Sentences

Discovered in 1852, Psyche has the width of Massachusetts, a squashed spherical shape reminiscent of a pincushion, and an orbit between Mars and Jupiter in the main asteroid belt.

From Salon

The endangered Sneed’s pincushion cactus and other rare plants also grow in the area.

From Washington Post

Mike Israetel, co-founder of an online training and nutrition company and an amateur bodybuilder who competes at the national level, said steroids make him feel anxious, like “a pincushion of emotions.”

From Washington Post

Said one looter as he meticulously plucked every jewel-tipped pin from Countess Sheremetev’s pincushion, “This is how we take everything.”

From Literature

Holly froze, looking like she’d swallowed a pincushion.

From Literature