A comforter is a thick, soft blanket filled with materials like cotton, wool, or synthetic fibers, designed to keep you warm while you sleep. Unlike a regular blanket, a comforter is puffy and substantial, often quilted with stitching that holds the filling in place.

A comforter provides physical warmth and a cozy feeling that helps you relax and sleep well. On a cold winter night, sliding under a warm comforter can feel like getting a gentle hug.

In American homes, comforters typically cover the entire bed and often match the bedroom's style with decorative patterns or colors. Some people use a comforter with a removable cover called a duvet cover to keep it clean and change the look of their room.

The word can also mean a person who provides emotional support and encouragement. When a friend feels sad and you listen and help them feel better, you're acting as a comforter. In older writings, you might see comforter used this way, describing someone who brings solace during difficult times.