A1 noun Neutral #1,751 most common

mattress

/ˈmætrəs/

A mattress is a large, thick pad used for sleeping on, typically placed on top of a bed frame. It is designed to provide support and comfort to the body using materials like foam, springs, or air.

Examples

3 of 5
1

I need to buy a new mattress because this one is too old and uncomfortable.

I need to buy a new mattress because this one is too old and uncomfortable.

2

The hotel management ensures that every mattress is sanitized according to health protocols.

The hotel management ensures that every mattress is sanitized according to health protocols.

3

Dude, your mattress is so soft it feels like sleeping on a cloud.

Dude, your mattress is so soft it feels like sleeping on a cloud.

Word Family

Noun
mattress
Adjective
mattressed
Related
bedding
💡

Memory Tip

Think of the 'M' in Mattress standing for 'Morning'—it is what you wake up on every morning.

Quick Quiz

My back hurts because my ___ is too soft.

Correct!

The correct answer is: mattress

Examples

1

I need to buy a new mattress because this one is too old and uncomfortable.

everyday

I need to buy a new mattress because this one is too old and uncomfortable.

2

The hotel management ensures that every mattress is sanitized according to health protocols.

formal

The hotel management ensures that every mattress is sanitized according to health protocols.

3

Dude, your mattress is so soft it feels like sleeping on a cloud.

informal

Dude, your mattress is so soft it feels like sleeping on a cloud.

4

Research indicates that mattress firmness can significantly impact the quality of REM sleep.

academic

Research indicates that mattress firmness can significantly impact the quality of REM sleep.

5

Our quarterly sales report shows a high demand for organic latex mattresses in the urban market.

business

Our quarterly sales report shows a high demand for organic latex mattresses in the urban market.

Word Family

Noun
mattress
Adjective
mattressed
Related
bedding

Common Collocations

firm mattress firm mattress
memory foam mattress memory foam mattress
double mattress double mattress
mattress topper mattress topper
spring mattress spring mattress

Common Phrases

mattress protector

mattress protector

flip the mattress

flip the mattress

air mattress

air mattress

Often Confused With

mattress vs bed

A bed is the entire piece of furniture, while the mattress is just the soft part you lie on.

mattress vs mat

A mat is usually thin and used for floors or exercise, whereas a mattress is thick and used for sleeping.

📝

Usage Notes

Use 'on' when describing sleeping or sitting (e.g., 'I am sitting on the mattress'). It is a countable noun, so you can have 'one mattress' or 'two mattresses'.

⚠️

Common Mistakes

Learners often use 'bed' when they specifically mean the 'mattress'. For example, if the springs are poking you, you should say 'the mattress is uncomfortable', not 'the bed is uncomfortable'.

💡

Memory Tip

Think of the 'M' in Mattress standing for 'Morning'—it is what you wake up on every morning.

📖

Word Origin

Derived from the Arabic word 'matrah', which means 'a place where something is thrown' or 'a cushion'.

Grammar Patterns

Countable noun Plural form: mattresses Commonly follows adjectives like 'soft', 'firm', or 'new'
🌍

Cultural Context

In many Western countries, it is a common tradition to hide money 'under the mattress' as a metaphor for distrusting banks.

Quick Quiz

My back hurts because my ___ is too soft.

Correct!

The correct answer is: mattress

More Home words

terrace

A1

A flat, paved area outside a house or building where you can sit and enjoy the weather. It is often used for eating meals or relaxing outdoors and can be at ground level or on a roof.

wire

A1

A wire is a thin, flexible thread of metal. It is commonly used to carry electricity between devices or to fasten objects together.

toilet

A1

A large bowl-shaped fixture used for getting rid of body waste, usually found in a bathroom. It is also a common word for the room that contains this bowl.

attic

A1

An attic is a room or space located directly under the roof of a house. It is commonly used for storing old things or can be turned into a small extra bedroom.

hallway

A1

A long, narrow passage inside a building that connects different rooms. It is used for walking from one part of a house, school, or office to another.

pillow

A1

A pillow is a soft, rectangular object used to support the head while sleeping or resting. It usually consists of a fabric bag filled with soft materials like feathers, foam, or synthetic fibers.

sheet

A1

A large, thin, rectangular piece of cloth used on a bed to keep the sleeper comfortable and the mattress clean. It can also refer to a flat piece of paper or a thin layer of any material like metal or ice.

cabinet

A1

A cabinet is a piece of furniture with shelves or drawers, often featuring doors, used for storing or displaying items. It is commonly found in rooms like the kitchen, bathroom, or office to keep things organized and out of sight.

refrigerator

A1

A large electric appliance used to keep food and drinks cold so they stay fresh for a longer period. It is a fundamental piece of kitchen equipment that prevents spoilage by maintaining a low temperature.

dishwasher

A1

A dishwasher is a machine used to automatically clean plates, glasses, and cutlery. It is a common kitchen appliance that uses hot water and detergent to remove food and grease from dishes.

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