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 of embroidery

• 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

Keeping with a tonal suede theme, the entire upper of the retro sneaker is covered in a chocolatey brown with puffy paisley embroidery throughout. —Riley Jones, Footwear News, 29 Dec. 2025

So much of the collection is based off of prints and fabrics and embroidery and design. —Brittany Loggins, Bon Appetit Magazine, 23 Dec. 2025

Customization is offered with chain-stitching and embroidery work. —Idaho Statesman, 20 Dec. 2025

The embroidery throws small shadows; the stitch becomes light, and light becomes a kind of breathing. —Olga Garcia-Mayoral, Miami Herald, 18 Dec. 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