Definition
A bed filled with water instead of traditional springs or foam, heated by an electric thermostat, and marketed in the 1960s-1980s as a revolutionary comfort innovation and status symbol. Waterbeds required special maintenance and were prone to leaks and motion sickness in some users.
Example Usage
Having a waterbed was considered luxurious, though our guests complained about the waves when they sat on it.
Origin
Literally combining 'water' and 'bed'; the concept was patented in the 1960s, though water-filled mattresses appeared earlier in various forms.
Fun Fact
Waterbeds peaked in popularity during the 1970s and 1980s, with some models featuring mirrored ceilings and built-in heaters; they've largely disappeared from mainstream markets due to the availability of superior memory foam alternatives.
Related Terms
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