cutwork

noun

cut·​work ˈkət-ˌwərk How to pronounce cutwork (audio)
: embroidery usually on linen in which a design is outlined in buttonhole stitch and the enclosed material cut away

Examples of cutwork in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web This Bode dress that is made from a cutwork tablecloth from the 1910s-1930s—I’m a fan of Emily’s vision for the brand and its stores. Talia Abbas, Vogue, 14 Feb. 2024 The cutwork curlicues, stars, and trees on the border of this runner definitely deliver the wow factor. Sarah Halverson, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Apr. 2023 The overskirt is appliqued with cutwork of large dahlias. Judith Thurman, The New Yorker, 22 Mar. 2021

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'cutwork.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cutwork was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near cutwork

Cite this Entry

“Cutwork.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cutwork. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on cutwork

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