A pillow is a support of the body at rest for comfort, therapeutic, decoration or play. Pillows are used by many animals including humans. Pillows that aid sleeping are a form of bedding that supports the head and neck. Other types of pillows are designed to support the body when lying down or sitting. Decorative pillows used on beds, couches or chairs are also referred to as cushions.
In contemporary western culture, pillows consist of a plain or patterned fabric envelope (pillowcase) which contains a soft stuffing, typically synthetic and typically standardized in sizes and shape. Pillows have been is historically made of a variety of natural materials and many cultures continue to use pillows made from natural materials.
The word pillow comes from Middle English pilwe, from Old English pyle (akin to Old High German pfuliwi) and from Latin pulvinus. The first known use of the word pillow was before the 12th century.
