embroider

verb

em·​broi·​der im-ˈbrȯi-dər 

embroidered; embroidering im-ˈbrȯi-d(ə-)riŋ 

transitive verb

1

a

: to ornament with needlework

b

: to form with needlework

2

: to elaborate on : embellish

embroider a story

intransitive verb

1

: to make embroidery

2

: to provide embellishments : elaborate

embroiderer

im-ˈbrȯi-dər-ər 

noun

Synonyms

• color
• elaborate (on)
• embellish
• exaggerate
• hyperbolize
• magnify
• pad
• stretch

Examples of embroider in a Sentence

She embroidered tiny flowers on the baby's scarf.

a scarf embroidered with tiny flowers

He is known to embroider the truth about his service in the army.

Recent Examples on the Web

Grande’s ruby-red performance gown, meanwhile, was a bustier ball gown embroidered with over 150,000 beads, sequins, and Swarovski crystals, and finished with a flowing tulle train. —Christian Allaire, Vogue, 3 Mar. 2025

Give me all the cloaks embroidered with golden threads, the neat-o Cardinal’s beanies, the soft suede of those little red slippers! —Stephanie Zacharek, TIME, 2 Mar. 2025

During those visits, Zelensky wore a simple sweatshirt—also embroidered with the trident. —Dan Perry, Newsweek, 2 Mar. 2025

The Speedy 40 and Montsouris backpack showcase the LV Blason Denim, with the logo embroidered in a variety of striking hues. —Essence, 21 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

alteration of Middle English embroderen, from Anglo-French embrouder, from en- + brosder, brouder to embroider, of Germanic origin; akin to Old English brord point, byrst bristle

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1a

Kids Definition

embroider

verb

em·​broi·​der im-ˈbrȯid-ər 

embroidered; embroidering -(ə-)riŋ 

1

: to make or fill in a design with needlework

2

: to decorate with needlework

3

: to add to the interest of (as a story) with details or by exaggerating

embroiderer

-ər-ər 

noun