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

Printed silk shirts, wide lapels, embroidery, sharply tailored jeans and patchwork denim captured the mood. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 23 June 2025

Crafted from moisture-wicking cotton and linen, with details like embroidery, scalloped edging, and ruffles, they’re polished without feeling fussy. —Malia Griggs, Glamour, 20 June 2025

The knit top displays gorgeous detailing, including ruffles around the pointed collars and delicate embroidery down the front, and it’s made from a largely cotton blend that will remain in great condition well past this season. —Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 20 June 2025

Classic fabrics like tweed and tartan are reimagined with shimmer, embroidery, and contemporary cuts. —Essence, 13 June 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