futon

American  

[foo-ton, fyoo-] / ˈfu tɒn, ˈfyu- /

noun

1. a thin mattress, usually filled with layers of cotton batting and encased in cotton fabric, placed on a floor for sleeping, especially in traditional Japanese interiors, and folded and stored during the day.

---

futon British  

/ ˈfuːˌtɒn /

noun

1. a Japanese padded quilt, laid on the floor for use as a bed, or on a frame for use as a chair

---

Etymology

Origin of futon

1875–80; < Japanese < Middle Chinese, equivalent to Chinese pútuán rush-mat seat

Example Sentences

The master bedroom features enough space for a king-sized bed, a futon, and comes with several windows that showcase the lush backyard.

From MarketWatch • Nov. 25, 2025

Nearby, a folding table was strewn with snacks, and a futon and couch were piled high with pillows and blankets.

From Slate • Apr. 21, 2024

With a futon, a half-bath and bookshelf, it’s guest-ready too.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 30, 2022

I would then sneak out onto the front porch and sit down on this damn futon.

From Salon • Apr. 26, 2022

“They really are. Freckles and I were making the futon up, and then I found them and started looking. You were really beautiful.”

From "Better Nate Than Ever" by Tim Federle