bedspring: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Low (C1/C2)Technical, dated, or descriptive.
Quick answer
What does “bedspring” mean?
The framework of coiled or linked springs within a mattress, forming its main supporting and cushioning structure.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The framework of coiled or linked springs within a mattress, forming its main supporting and cushioning structure.
A less common term sometimes used to refer to a box spring (the supportive base for a mattress), or historically to the spring assembly of any upholstered bed.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is understood in both varieties but is rarely used in contemporary speech. The more common modern terms in both are 'mattress springs' or 'coils'. 'Box spring' (US) / 'divan base' or 'spring base' (UK) is the typical term for the separate supportive unit.
Connotations
In both, it connotes a mechanical, functional, or somewhat outdated component.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in both, but slightly more likely to be encountered in older technical manuals or descriptive writing in AmE.
Grammar
How to Use “bedspring” in a Sentence
The [ADJ] bedspring [VERB] (e.g., The broken bedspring creaked.)[VERB] the bedspring (e.g., replace, fix, feel)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “bedspring” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The old mattress was so worn you could practically bedspring through the fabric.
adjective
American English
- They opted for a bedspring-free foam mattress for better support.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rarely used; industry terms like 'innerspring system' or 'coil count' are preferred.
Academic
Virtually absent except in historical or material culture studies discussing furniture design.
Everyday
Extremely rare; people say 'the springs are gone' or 'the mattress is shot'.
Technical
The primary domain; found in furniture repair manuals, antique restoration guides, or mattress manufacturing specifications.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “bedspring”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “bedspring”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “bedspring”
- Using 'bedspring' to mean the entire bed frame (it's only the spring part).
- Confusing it with 'box spring' (AmE) which is a separate unit.
- Spelling as two separate words: 'bed spring'.
- Using it in modern casual conversation where 'springs' suffices.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. A 'bedspring' typically refers to the springs inside the mattress itself. A 'box spring' (American English) is a separate, box-shaped frame containing springs that sits under the mattress for added support and height.
No, it is quite rare in everyday language. Most people simply refer to the 'springs in the mattress'. It is more of a technical or historical term.
You can, but it would sound old-fashioned or overly specific. In a modern context, terms like 'mattress coils', 'spring system', or even just 'the mattress support' are more natural.
Treat it as a C2-level, passive vocabulary item. Recognise it in older texts or technical manuals. For active use, the simpler word 'springs' is almost always sufficient and more natural.
The framework of coiled or linked springs within a mattress, forming its main supporting and cushioning structure.
Bedspring is usually technical, dated, or descriptive. in register.
Bedspring: in British English it is pronounced /ˈbɛdsprɪŋ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈbɛdˌsprɪŋ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “(as) bouncy as a new bedspring (rare, informal)”
- “to hit the bedsprings (archaic slang for going to bed)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a BED that makes you SPRING up because the SPRINGS inside are too bouncy. The word literally combines 'bed' + 'spring'.
Conceptual Metaphor
SUPPORT IS A FOUNDATION (the bedspring is the foundational support system for rest).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'bedspring' MOST likely to be used correctly?