embroidery

noun

em·​broi·​dery im-ˈbrȯi-d(ə-)rē 

plural embroideries

1

a

: the art or process of forming decorative designs with hand or machine needlework

b

: a design or decoration formed by or as if by embroidery

c

: an object decorated with embroidery

2

: elaboration by use of decorative and often fictitious detail

3

: something pleasing or desirable but unimportant

considered the humanities mere educational embroidery

Synonyms

• needlework

Examples of embroidery in a Sentence

She learned embroidery from her grandmother.

His stories about his travels include a good deal of embroidery.

Recent Examples on the Web

The fabric features white embroidery, giving the simple design depth and texture. —Mikelle Street, Footwear News, 18 May 2025

And brands should also offer decorative twists with embroideries and embellishments to lift the female shopper’s denim wardrobe. —Catherine Salfino, Sourcing Journal, 8 May 2025

To the visible eye, every dress is in incredible condition—luminous colors, embroideries from more than a century ago that shimmer anew, each silhouette fitted impeccably on the mannequin—and for some visitors, this will prove the most remarkable part of the show. —Amy Verner, Vogue, 7 May 2025

Adorned on the bodice was intricate angel embroidery, drawing inspiration from biblical narratives reimagined through the cultural lens of people of color. —Brittany Talarico, People.com, 6 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

embroidery

noun

em·​broi·​dery im-ˈbrȯid-(ə-)rē 

plural embroideries

1

: the process or art of embroidering

2

: needlework done to decorate cloth