Padded

The adjective 'padded' describes something that has been filled with soft material, typically for cushioning, protection, or warmth. It can refer to physical objects, such as furniture or clothing, or metaphorical situations where something is artificially increased or protected. The degree of padding influences the softness, thickness, and overall function of the object. The primary purpose is generally to add a layer of comfort or security to the object, or, in a metaphorical sense, to disguise a reality or enhance an existing position. This extra material can be found in many forms, ranging from soft cotton batting to protective armor.

Padded meaning with examples

• The antique armchair had a thick, padded seat, promising hours of comfortable reading. The upholstery was a luxurious velvet that begged to be sat upon. Its worn but softened surface concealed years of use. The careful craftsmanship meant the padding supported the body perfectly.
• Before going out on patrol, the soldiers put on their heavily padded flak jackets to protect themselves from potential gunfire. They moved slowly and felt encumbered by the gear, but the extra protection gave them confidence while they fulfilled their assignments.
• The report was padded with unnecessary details and technical jargon to make it seem more impressive. The consultant used lengthy sentences and overly specific terminology to appear authoritative. The padding made it more verbose than informative to the decision-makers.
• The company’s financial statements were intentionally padded with optimistic projections to attract investors. The marketing team created appealing sales pitches for the public. The padding was intended to conceal underlying challenges, hoping the illusion of prosperity would secure funding.