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

This is another maxi dress that’s sure to make a statement, thanks to shimmering gold embroidery and a thigh-high side slit. —Jamie Allison Sanders, Peoplemag, 30 Mar. 2024

Sequin beads and delicate embroidery are some of the most common adornments–though feathers and fil-coupe are thrown in the mix from time to time, as well. —Shelby Ying Hyde, Vogue, 27 Mar. 2024

In collaboration with noblewoman Elizabeth Talbot (widely known as Bess of Hardwick), Mary, Queen of Scots, designed several embroidery and lace patterns. —Pragya Agarwal, Smithsonian Magazine, 18 Mar. 2024

Using the embroidery thread and needle, make a few stitches through each glove and knot the thread ends inside the helmet. —Kimberly Stoney, Parents, 21 Mar. 2024

Most embroidery pattern books were written by men, and in rejecting these patterns (and sentiments), women exerted power and emotional authority, while treading the line between masculine authoritativeness and female passivity. —Pragya Agarwal, Smithsonian Magazine, 18 Mar. 2024

Beyond the checkout line, TikTokers have gained tens of thousands of views for sharing and customizing their bags with detail paint, buttons, and embroidery designs. —Gaetane Lewis, Quartz, 13 Mar. 2024

Dior creative director Maria Grazia Chiuri created the modern version, updating the silhouette while paying tribute to the original’s painterly embroidery. —Laurie Brookins, The Hollywood Reporter, 10 Mar. 2024

The singer and actress, 81, glittered in a gold top and skirt combo layered under an open black jacket with complementary gold floral embroidery at the collar. —Charlotte Phillipp, Peoplemag, 25 Feb. 2024

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