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

Using embroidery and textile patterns from Indigenous artisans from Oaxaca, Chiapas and other places, Trujillo began producing suits, dresses and formal ensembles for debates, campaign rallies and, eventually, the presidential palace. —Arkansas Online, 14 Dec. 2025

These had begun as her son’s watercolor paintings, and Rosas had slowly added her own layers of embroidery. —Hua Hsu, New Yorker, 13 Dec. 2025

Alaïa was also sensitive to the romantic side of Dior, collecting gowns bursting with patterns, embroidery and vivid color, echoed in the floral set design of the exhibition by Kris Ruhs. —Joelle Diderich, Footwear News, 12 Dec. 2025

Inside each box, find two pieces of cloth with designs printed on them, two embroidery hoops, two adhesive foam stickers, a punch needle threader, twine for hanging your ornament, and plenty of yarn and thread. —Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Dec. 2025

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