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

With playful prints, fun embroideries, and the softest material, Stripe & Stare has something for everyone—even every astrological sign. —Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 7 Mar. 2025

In my view, elegance is born from contrast: a sharp blazer with intricate embroidery or an ethereal dress with a structured detail. —Felicity Carter, Forbes, 3 Mar. 2025

The result: a canvas ready-made for needlepoint, a craft that’s essentially paint-by-numbers for embroidery. —Megan Sauer, CNBC, 28 Feb. 2025

Brown, 21, channeled old Hollywood by wearing a sheer dress with intricate silver embroidery. —Ingrid Vasquez, People.com, 28 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