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

Custom drapery can enhance serenity and flow in living spaces, bedrooms and reading nooks, creating an ambience reminiscent of the local coffee shop or bookstore. —Gretchen M. Stone, Charlotte Observer, 19 Feb. 2026

The way draperies naturally bunch and undulate is a perfect example of how material or application can contrast the sharp lines. —Kristina McGuirk, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Feb. 2026

With 10 stories and 979 rooms, the O’Hare International Tower Hotel (now Hilton Chicago O’Hare Airport Hotel) was built to suppress jet noise due to its design of thick floor-to-ceiling windows and thick walls containing acoustical batting and heavy draperies. —Kori Rumore, Chicago Tribune, 9 Feb. 2026

Interior designer Jennifer McKissick appreciates using these in lieu of heavy drapery. —Sarah Lyon, The Spruce, 7 Feb. 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