drapery

noun

drap·​ery ˈdrā-p(ə-)rē How to pronounce drapery (audio)
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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Focus on Fullness Channeling maximalism with your draperies can take many forms, but Ryan’s favorite trait to focus on is fullness. Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 1 Nov. 2025 Like baby bangs, but for drapery. Lori Keong, Architectural Digest, 30 Oct. 2025 Due to its durability, warmth and softness, flannel fabrics are also used to make linens, upholstery and drapery. Bestreviews, Mercury News, 28 Oct. 2025 The elegant lobby, with its soaring ceilings, ornate drapery, and Old-World-era vibes, is worth a visit in its own right. Lauren Dana Ellman, Travel + Leisure, 19 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for drapery

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of drapery was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Drapery.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/drapery. Accessed 5 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

drapery

noun
drap·​ery ˈdrā-p(ə-)rē How to pronounce drapery (audio)
plural draperies
1
: a decorative fabric hung in loose folds
2
: curtains of heavy fabric often used over thinner curtains

More from Merriam-Webster on drapery

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!