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

The salon is painted Benjamin Moore’s moody Tamarind, with a glossy coat on the ceiling, a perfect contrast to the ochre mohair upholstery of a pair of 1960s Olivier Mourgue Montreal chairs. — Hannah Martin, Architectural Digest, 14 Aug. 2026

Period-correct lights, hinges, and fittings are set against solid mahogany walls and red leather upholstery. — Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 13 Aug. 2026

Its turbo tool attachment lifts fur from upholstery and curtains, while its 9-foot telescoping wand reaches dust bunnies hiding under low-lying furniture. — Sian Babish, PEOPLE, 13 Aug. 2026

The leather straps represent the depth and tone of fine automotive upholstery. — Carol Besler, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 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