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 of embroidery

• 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

Not to mention the adorable embroidery, which reviews praise for its style. — Julia Morlino, Travel + Leisure, 15 July 2026

Its elastic bridge straps hug the foot for optimal support, just as a removable OrthoLite insole specializes in soft landings and brand embroidery on the toe contrasts aptly with the kick’s chocolate brown coloring. — Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 14 July 2026

The combination of an embroidery that old surviving intact all these years later and its thrilling telling of one of the most consequential battles in all of history just simply doesn’t have an equal. — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 13 July 2026

Mothers found entertainment in swapping Godey’s Ladies Book or Petersons Catalogue (the Vogue of the time) and learned new embroidery designs or sleeve shapes. — Caroline Reilly, Forbes.com, 11 July 2026

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