drapery

noun

drap·​ery ˈdrā-p(ə-)rē 

plural draperies

1

British : dry goods

2

a

: a decorative piece of material usually hung in loose folds and arranged in a graceful design

b

: hangings of heavy fabric for use as a curtain

3

: the draping or arranging of materials

Synonyms of drapery

• curtains
• drapes

Examples of drapery in a Sentence

The painter arranged several items among drapery and began to work.

the drapery for the picture window matched the color of the furniture in the center of the room

Recent Examples on the Web

The flag should never be used as wearing apparel, bedding, or drapery. —Darleene Powells, Boston Herald, 10 June 2026

The drapery or scrollwork around a shield is called a lambrequin, a five-petaled flower is called a cinquefoil, and an emblem or animal that puns on the bearer’s name is called a rebus. —Helen Lewis, The Atlantic, 9 June 2026

Local makers contributed everything from ceramics and millwork to drapery and wallpaper, while art by Michigan artists is displayed on the walls. —Regan Stephens, Travel + Leisure, 8 June 2026

Alternatively, throw draperies and curtains into the dryer for 10 minutes to remove dust and kill mites; avoid ironing them by promptly removing and rehanging them. —Emerson Latham, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for drapery

• papery

Kids Definition

drapery

noun

drap·​ery ˈdrā-p(ə-)rē 

plural draperies

1

: a decorative fabric hung in loose folds

2

: curtains of heavy fabric often used over thinner curtains