upholstery

noun

up·​hol·​stery (ˌ)əp-ˈhōl-st(ə-)rē 

(ˌ)ə-ˈpōl-

plural upholsteries

: materials (such as fabric, padding, and springs) used to make a soft covering especially for a seat

Examples of upholstery in a Sentence

an old chair that needs new upholstery

He learned upholstery from his father.

Recent Examples on the Web

Never worry about scrubbing away stains from your pets or children again with this powerful carpet and upholstery cleaner. — Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 26 June 2026

This budget-friendly model offers a 20-foot cable and attachments for cleaning stairs, upholstery and more. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 26 June 2026

The Truck has wraps, brakelights, seat upholstery, bezels, trim pieces, and on and on. — Sara Lacey, The Drive, 25 June 2026

The feature is almost chameleon-like, shifting to suit various design styles depending on its upholstery (or lack thereof) and scale. — Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 25 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English upholdester upholsterer, from upholden to uphold, from up + holden to hold

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

upholstery

noun

up·​hol·​stery (ˌ)əp-ˈhōl-st(ə-)rē 

(ˌ)ə-ˈpōl-

plural upholsteries

: materials (as fabric, padding, and springs) used to make a soft covering especially for a seat