Plush

Part of speech: adjective

Pronunciation: /plʌʃ/

Definitions

1. A rich, soft fabric with a deep, dense pile often used for upholstery, clothing, or toys ; exhibiting qualities of great comfort, luxury, or elegance ; something that is lavishly decorated or furnished to convey an impression of wealth and refinement
2. A thick, velvety textile known for its smooth, cushioned texture frequently used in luxurious garments and furniture coverings ; describing an environment or setting that is sumptuously appointed ; denoting anything characterized by indulgent softness or richness
3. A material made with a long, soft nap giving a plush feel, commonly utilized in luxury fabrics and cozy items ; signifying an atmosphere or style marked by opulence and comfort ; referring to objects or spaces designed to suggest affluence and tactile richness

Etymology: The surprise with "plush" is that its modern sense of luxury grew out of its softness rather than the other way round. The word comes from French "peluche," meaning fluff or shaggy fabric, and that fluffy nap is the literal core of the meaning. Plush cloth has a pile, a dense layer of raised fibres that gives it a soft, deep surface, and that tactile quality gave the word its first sense. Over time the fabric became associated with wealth. In past centuries plush upholstery was expensive enough to be socially exclusive, so owning it signalled status. That expense linked the idea of softness with the idea of luxury, and the two senses have stayed attached ever since, so that "plush" can describe a velvety cushion or a lavish hotel suite with equal ease.

Synonyms: luxurious, soft, velvety, sumptuous, opulent

Antonyms: rough, hard, coarse, stiff, uncomfortable