Hassock

A hassock is a firm, cushioned footstool or a low seat, often used as a kneeler in churches. Historically, they were simple, round, and made of woven straw, rushes, or grass, offering a comfortable place for kneeling during prayer or a place to rest weary feet. Over time, hassocks have evolved, incorporating materials like leather, fabric, and foam for improved comfort and aesthetics. They are common in homes for additional seating or as decorative elements, adding a touch of traditional charm. The word's origins trace back to the Anglo-Saxon word 'hassel', referring to brushwood or a tuft of grass, the materials from which they were originally crafted.

Hassock meaning with examples

• After a long day, Sarah sunk into the plush armchair and rested her tired feet on the soft hassock, finding instant relaxation. The hassock provided the perfect height for optimal comfort.
• The antique shop displayed a beautifully worn leather hassock, its intricate stitching and aged patina speaking of generations of use. It offered a rustic charm that perfectly suited their collection.
• In the church, the parishioners knelt on the small, rectangular hassocks during prayer, their prayer books resting comfortably upon the soft cushioning.
• The designer incorporated a brightly patterned hassock into the living room's design, adding a splash of color and a functional touch that tied the room together.
• During the movie night, they moved the ottomans around, using them interchangeably as a coffee table or an impromptu hassock for guests who needed a place to rest their feet.