marquetry

noun

mar·​que·​try ˈmär-kə-trē How to pronounce marquetry (audio)
variants or less commonly marqueterie
: decorative work in which elaborate patterns are formed by the insertion of pieces of material (such as wood, shell, or ivory) into a wood veneer that is then applied to a surface (as of a piece of furniture)

Illustration of marquetry

Illustration of marquetry
  • M marquetry

Examples of marquetry in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Within the confines of a modest 38mm white gold case, Hermès employs traditional enamel work along with the application of silk threads and colorful leather marquetry in this truly one-of-a-kind design. Cait Bazemore, Robb Report, 5 Mar. 2024 The first one is malachite, which is usually used in thin slices for dials, but in an unusual twist, Bulgari creates a marquetry composition made of malachite inlay. Carol Besler, Forbes, 22 Feb. 2024 The show includes contemporary furniture, art furniture, traditional furniture, veneering, woodcarving, marquetry furniture, wood sculpture and woodturning. Linda McIntosh, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 Feb. 2024 Or the truly impressive marquetry that works pieces of red leather into the shape of a fish. Matt Ortile, Condé Nast Traveler, 8 Dec. 2023 There are intricate straw marquetry panels by Studio François Mascarello, and a wall hanging by Atelier Antonin Anzil. Paige Reddinger, Robb Report, 22 Nov. 2023 Lino reappeared to demonstrate another perk, pulling open magnetic doors in the mother-of-pearl marquetry that revealed a large window onto the corridor, which now gave me views from both sides of the train. Monisha Rajesh, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Oct. 2023 Opening in 2021 after six years of intensive renovations, the dazzling decor blends an old-world spirit with more modish touches, from lavish bathrooms clad in Italian marble and French lacquer marquetry to contemporary artworks and a cutting-edge spa and fitness center. Vogue, 28 Sep. 2023 Through the French doors is the patio for indoor and outdoor dining, which is adjoined by an office that houses its own powder room with tray ceiling and marquetry floor. Alexis Jones, Peoplemag, 13 Sep. 2023

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

Word History

Etymology

Middle French marqueterie, from marqueter to checker, inlay, from marque mark

First Known Use

1563, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of marquetry was in 1563

Dictionary Entries Near marquetry

Cite this Entry

“Marquetry.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/marquetry. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

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