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

• 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

Ugg Classic Short Crescent Fashion Boot Between a soft upper, a subtle yet detailed embroidery design, and interior wool lining, these Ugg boots are downright cozy. —Katrina Cossey, Parents, 8 Oct. 2025

People are still talking about Galliano’s famous Absinthe dress for Dior, a fluid column detailed with chinoiserie embroidery that Kidman wore to the 1997 Oscars. —Wendell Steavenson, Vogue, 8 Oct. 2025

Fireworks were also a story this season, interpreted as embroideries or opulent crystal decorations. —Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 8 Oct. 2025

The dress also contained three-dimensional floral embroidery on the skirt for a romantic touch. —Charna Flam, PEOPLE, 7 Oct. 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