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

Minor refreshes will be added to other classes, such as an extra inch of reclining space in premium economy cabins, and new upholstery in economy class. — Lim Hui Jie, CNBC, 6 Nov. 2026

Article also takes pride in testing its upholstery for abrasion resistance, vigorously wear-testing it in its facilities to ensure long-lasting quality. — Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 5 Nov. 2026

Ultrasuede upholstery, blue contrast stitching, aluminum pedals, and distinctive trim give the sportiest RZ a little more personality. — New Atlas, 2 Nov. 2026

The two-seat cabin is covered almost in lush white upholstery with blue trim and machined details, including its gear shifter (more on that in a moment) and many physical buttons and switches. — Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 2 Nov. 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