embroidery

noun

em·​broi·​dery im-ˈbrȯi-d(ə-)rē How to pronounce embroidery (audio)
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

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
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.
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 See All Example Sentences for embroidery

Word History

First Known Use

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

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

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Cite this Entry

“Embroidery.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/embroidery. Accessed 28 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

embroidery

noun
em·​broi·​dery im-ˈbrȯid-(ə-)rē How to pronounce embroidery (audio)
plural embroideries
1
: the process or art of embroidering
2
: needlework done to decorate cloth

More from Merriam-Webster on embroidery

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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