featherbed

Featherbed is a term with several distinct meanings, primarily referring to a soft, comfortable mattress or bedding material. Historically, featherbeds were made by filling a case with feathers, typically from birds like geese or ducks. These provided a luxurious and plush sleeping surface, though they could be heavy and prone to shifting. In modern usage, "featherbed" can still refer to a mattress filled with feathers or down, often as a topper placed on a firmer mattress for added comfort. It can also be used metaphorically to describe any situation that is extremely comfortable or easy.

Beyond bedding, "featherbedding" is a labor union practice where employees are paid for work not performed or for jobs that are not necessary. This can involve having more workers on a job than are needed or maintaining jobs that have become obsolete due to technological advancements. This practice is often seen as a way for unions to protect jobs and maintain employment levels, but it can also be criticized for increasing labor costs and reducing efficiency. The term's origin is debated but is generally thought to relate to the idea of being "featherbedded" or overprotected from hardship.