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

The intricate, contrasting embroidery detail on this babydoll dress is stunning, creating a cool textural element to this look. —Caroline Hughes, Travel + Leisure, 26 May 2026

Demand for boho embroidery is also growing. —Angela Velasquez, Footwear News, 26 May 2026

For those who find the poppy colorway a bit too vibrant, the set also comes in white with brown embroidery detail. —Morgan Evans, Condé Nast Traveler, 26 May 2026

Singer Tinashe embraced sheer fashion in an off-the-shoulder white lace gown featuring intricate embroidery. —Stephanie Giang-Paunon, FOXNews.com, 26 May 2026

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