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 garment was made from a light blue fabric with colorful floral embroidery, and a prominent diamond brooch decorating the center of the V-neckline. —Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 16 June 2026

Banana Republic's 100-percent cotton poplin pants feel particularly perfect for summer thanks to that floral cutwork embroidery. —Kaelin Dodge, InStyle, 14 June 2026

My favorites of the moment include minis and midis with eyelet embroidery, floral prints, and bold stripes from brands like Gap, Nic+Zoe, and Lands’ End. —Jamie Allison Sanders, PEOPLE, 13 June 2026

More than a retail space, PatBO’s Portofino boutique offers an immersive introduction to the world Patricia Bonaldi has spent over a decade creating, where intricate hand embroidery, bold colour and Brazilian artistry meet the international luxury traveller. —Kate Hardcastle, Forbes.com, 11 June 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