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

Sheer fabric with floral embroidery in lace cascading down the bodice and skirt of the gown, merging sensuality with subtle sophistication in equal measure. —Julia Teti, Footwear News, 29 Oct. 2025

The photos were printed out and framed for the couple and gifted alongside a print of the dogs’ paws, dog toys, custom collars, bandanas and an embroidery of the dogs' faces. —Kimberlee Speakman, PEOPLE, 28 Oct. 2025

The new beach collection, which launched globally this week, covers shirts, shorts, swim shorts and accessories in Italian linen, silk and towelling with fine jacquard and embroidery across some of the pieces. —Chris Gardner, HollywoodReporter, 24 Oct. 2025

Fans embraced the aesthetic with their own flair—from iconic double denim and bootcut jeans to timeless Western shirts, cowboy hats and boots—often customizing looks with rhinestones, embroidery, fringe details and flashy bandana prints. —Andre Claudio, Sourcing Journal, 23 Oct. 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