stuffing
UK: ˈstʌfɪŋ | US: ˈstʌfɪŋ
n. a mixture used to fill poultry or other food before cooking
n. soft material used to pad or fill objects (e.g., cushions, toys)
n. (informal) unnecessary or excessive content added to something
The word "stuffing" derives from the verb "stuff," which originated from Old French "estoffer" (to equip or furnish) and earlier Germanic roots meaning "to stop up" or "fill tightly." The suffix "-ing" transforms the action into a noun, referring either to the material used for filling or the act itself. Historically, "stuff" referred broadly to materials or provisions, later narrowing to culinary and padding contexts.
The Thanksgiving turkey was flavored with herb stuffing.
She replaced the old stuffing in the couch cushions.
His essay had too much stuffing and not enough analysis.
The toy’s stuffing started to leak after years of use.
Traditional stuffing often includes breadcrumbs and spices.