drapery

noun

drap·​ery ˈdrā-p(ə-)rē How to pronounce drapery (audio)
plural draperies
1
British : dry goods
2
a
: a decorative piece of material usually hung in loose folds and arranged in a graceful design
b
: hangings of heavy fabric for use as a curtain
3
: the draping or arranging of materials

Examples of drapery in a Sentence

The painter arranged several items among drapery and began to work. the drapery for the picture window matched the color of the furniture in the center of the room
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The tranquillity begins in the waiting area, where soft leather ottomans, suede and faux fur chairs, animal skin rugs, and long drapery lull you into a state of relaxation. Claudia Fisher, Travel + Leisure, 19 May 2025 That thing might have a statue of Elvis in it, gold bathroom fixtures and thick dark draperies tied off in braided silk that suggest a madam’s place of business. Joe Soucheray, Twin Cities, 17 May 2025 Broken shackles lie underneath the statue’s drapery, to symbolize the end of all types of servitude and oppression. Jack Guy, CNN, 18 Mar. 2025 The sliding door at back leads to a small terrace and is covered with drapery fabric from Osborne & Little. Tori Sikkema, Curbed, 19 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for drapery

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of drapery was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Drapery.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/drapery. Accessed 4 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

drapery

noun
drap·​ery ˈdrā-p(ə-)rē How to pronounce drapery (audio)
plural draperies
1
: a decorative fabric hung in loose folds
2
: curtains of heavy fabric often used over thinner curtains

More from Merriam-Webster on drapery

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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