hassock

Old English hassoc, of uncertain origin.

• (UK) IPA^(key): /ˈhasək/

• Audio (Southern England):

  (file)

• Rhymes: -æsək

hassock (plural hassocks)

1. A dense clump of grass or vegetation; a tussock. [from 10th c.]
2. A cushion used primarily in churches for kneeling on while praying. [from 16th c.]

   Synonym: kneeler

   • 1978, Lawrence Durrell, Livia (Avignon Quintet), Faber & Faber, published 1992, page 357:

     At the next service he found a flower on his hassock and a highly suggestive Catholic bookmarker tucked into his hymn-book.

3. A thick cushion used as a seat; an ottoman or pouffe.

• Hosacks, shackos