embroidery

noun

em·​broi·​dery im-ˈbrȯi-d(ə-)rē 

plural embroideries

1

a

: the art or process of forming decorative designs with hand or machine needlework

b

: a design or decoration formed by or as if by embroidery

c

: an object decorated with embroidery

2

: elaboration by use of decorative and often fictitious detail

3

: something pleasing or desirable but unimportant

considered the humanities mere educational embroidery

Synonyms

• needlework

Examples of embroidery in a Sentence

She learned embroidery from her grandmother.

His stories about his travels include a good deal of embroidery.

Recent Examples on the Web

Sisters are encouraged to develop a personal craft, such as leatherwork, calligraphy, embroidery, or making rosaries, soap, candles, or icons. —Lawrence Wright, The New Yorker, 10 Feb. 2025

There is contemporary art, mainly paintings and photographs but also quilting and embroidery inspired by the house. —Christopher Arnott, Hartford Courant, 9 Feb. 2025

Shirley loved to sew, do embroidery, crafting and needlework. —Contributed Content, Twin Cities, 7 Feb. 2025

Items with beads, embroidery, sheer fabrics, lingerie, knit or loosely woven clothes, and some lace or silk items are better air-dried. —Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

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

Kids Definition

embroidery

noun

em·​broi·​dery im-ˈbrȯid-(ə-)rē 

plural embroideries

1

: the process or art of embroidering

2

: needlework done to decorate cloth