fluffed

Fluffed is the past tense of the verb fluff and, less commonly, an adjective describing something that has been made fluffy or padded. The base verb fluff has several related meanings, all centered on adding softness, volume, or fill.

In textiles and furnishings, to fluff means to loosen, lift, or rearrange fibers to restore softness and shape. A fluffed pillow or couch cushion has been plumped to regain its loft.

In avian and animal contexts, fluff refers to lifting fur or feathers to trap air for insulation or to display. A bird with fluffed feathers presents a puffed, warmer appearance.

In performance and broadcasting, to fluff lines means to mispronounce or forget lines during a performance, or to prepare material in a seemingly casual way. A line that is fluffed is a mistake.

In journalism and media, a fluff piece is a light, non-substantive story focusing on human interest rather than hard news. Although less common, the past participle “fluffed” may describe content that has been padded or embellished, though this usage is informal.

In everyday language, fluff also refers to soft, loose material such as down, cotton, or synthetic fiber used for filling or cushioning.

Overall, fluffed describes the result of the action fluff, often emphasizing softness, volume, or the presence of filler rather than substance.