drapery

noun

drap·​ery ˈdrā-p(ə-)rē 

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

Synonyms of drapery

• curtains
• drapes

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

The company’s fabrics are designed to live comfortably in a home — whether as upholstery, drapery or pillows. —Allison Hatfield, Dallas Morning News, 17 Mar. 2026

The stunning mocha-brown creation featured an asymmetrical neckline, side boob-baring cutouts, drapery along the waist, soaring thigh-high slit, and a flowy floor-grazing skirt. —Christina Perrier, InStyle, 15 Mar. 2026

Hang Heavy Drapery Designer Jennifer Fordham loves using custom drapery in her projects. —Tessa Cooper, Southern Living, 14 Mar. 2026

Even subtle routines, like closing drapery or keeping a journal on the nightstand, can shift the bedroom from passive consumption to intentional reflection. —Jacorey Moon, Architectural Digest, 12 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for drapery

• papery

Kids Definition

drapery

noun

drap·​ery ˈdrā-p(ə-)rē 

plural draperies

1

: a decorative fabric hung in loose folds

2

: curtains of heavy fabric often used over thinner curtains