cushion

(noun) a mechanical damper; absorbs energy of sudden impulses. Synonyms: shock absorber, shock. Example: "The old car needed a new set of shocks."

(noun) the layer of air that supports a hovercraft or similar vehicle.

(noun) a soft bag filled with air or a mass of padding such as feathers or foam rubber etc..

(verb) protect from impact. Synonyms: buffer, soften. Example: "Cushion the blow."