embroider

verb

em·​broi·​der im-ˈbrȯi-dər 

embroidered; embroidering im-ˈbrȯi-d(ə-)riŋ 

transitive verb

1

a

: to ornament with needlework

b

: to form with needlework

2

: to elaborate on : embellish

embroider a story

intransitive verb

1

: to make embroidery

2

: to provide embellishments : elaborate

embroiderer

im-ˈbrȯi-dər-ər 

noun

Synonyms

• exaggerate
• pad
• color
• embellish

Examples of embroider in a Sentence

She embroidered tiny flowers on the baby's scarf.

a scarf embroidered with tiny flowers

He is known to embroider the truth about his service in the army.

Recent Examples on the Web

Carpenter also unveiled each of the song titles on the album by having her fans pose with an adorable pup and a director’s chair embroidered with the track names. —Hannah Dailey, Billboard, 19 Aug. 2025

The horse theme also comes through more clearly, with images of the animal embroidered into the tartan seat inserts and door panels. —Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 8 Aug. 2025

It was covered in red velvet, with gold initials embroidered on front. —Kate Weinberg july 30, Literary Hub, 30 July 2025

Stormi's jacket, mini skirt and bag were all embroidered with the exclusive company's signature crosses and silver attachments. —Kayla Grant, People.com, 29 July 2025

Word History

Etymology

alteration of Middle English embroderen, from Anglo-French embrouder, from en- + brosder, brouder to embroider, of Germanic origin; akin to Old English brord point, byrst bristle

First Known Use

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

Kids Definition

embroider

verb

em·​broi·​der im-ˈbrȯid-ər 

embroidered; embroidering -(ə-)riŋ 

1

: to make or fill in a design with needlework

2

: to decorate with needlework

3

: to add to the interest of (as a story) with details or by exaggerating

embroiderer

-ər-ər 

noun