kudden

Kudden is the Swedish definite singular form of the noun kudde, meaning "the pillow." As a common household item, a kudde refers to a soft support used for resting the head while sleeping, for lumbar support, or as a decorative cushion. The word illustrates a regular pattern in Swedish morphology: en-words form the definite singular with the suffix -n (kudde → kudden).

In everyday use, kudden denotes a wide variety of products that differ in shape, size and filling. Traditional fillings include feathers and down, while modern variants use synthetic fibers, memory foam or latex. Decorative kuddar (plural) may feature removable covers in diverse fabrics for aesthetic purposes and easier laundering. Care instructions vary by material but commonly include washing or spot-cleaning the cover and following manufacturer guidance for the insert.

Beyond its literal meaning, kudden appears in language and culture in references to sleep, comfort and rest. It features in domestic contexts, hospitality, interior design and textiles industries. As a basic component of bedding, the kudden contributes to sleep ergonomics and is sometimes discussed in relation to neck support, allergy considerations and sustainability of filling materials.