the.com/cushioning
Keeping a backup crush warm in your DMs in case your main relationship faceplants.
means Maintaining a flirty backup connection on the side, just in case your primary relationship doesn't work out.
from From 'cushion,' the soft padded object that breaks a fall — rooted in Latin 'coxinum' (related to 'coxa,' hip, the thing you'd pad a seat for). The dating slang borrows the image directly: this person is the pillow you've quietly tucked under you in case the relationship chair collapses.
- related term
- Cousin of breadcrumbing and benching
- who does it
- Often happens while still coupled up
- the tell
- Suspiciously active late-night liking of your posts
- red flag level
- Mild until the cushions start multiplying