embroidery

noun

em·​broi·​dery im-ˈbrȯi-d(ə-)rē How to pronounce embroidery (audio)
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

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
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 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 See all Example Sentences for embroidery 

Word History

First Known Use

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

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

Dictionary Entries Near embroidery

Cite this Entry

“Embroidery.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/embroidery. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

embroidery

noun
em·​broi·​dery im-ˈbrȯid-(ə-)rē How to pronounce embroidery (audio)
plural embroideries
1
: the process or art of embroidering
2
: needlework done to decorate cloth

More from Merriam-Webster on embroidery

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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