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

The latter is replete with magnolia motifs, Su embroidery, and more than 70 original artworks. —Tori Latham, Robb Report, 1 Nov. 2024

The floral embroidery along the neckline is subtle, adding just the right amount of texture, while the flared sleeves give this an overall more laid back vibe. —Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 24 Oct. 2024

Allison Williams Williams incorporated sheer layers into the long sleeves of her full-length dress, which featured floral embroidery throughout. —Maggie Clancy, WWD, 18 Oct. 2024

Nicholas digitized the embroidery on the antique tablecloths to patchwork the pieces on the trousers, and Mr Smith filled in the embroidery, carefully matching the old style of workmanship. —Katherine Bernard, Vogue, 17 Oct. 2024

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