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

The Chanel ambassador also wore a sheer white top with delicate silver embroidery. —Julia Teti, Footwear News, 12 Nov. 2025

Protection of Embellished and Textured Fabrics Garments with embroidery, beading, sequins, or patches can be damaged in the washer if the embellishments snag on a button or snap. —Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 8 Nov. 2025

The bright blue hat showcases the white, raised embroidery of the Los Angeles Dodgers logo. —Izzy Baskette, PEOPLE, 31 Oct. 2025

The Levi’s x Barbour Type II Waxed Jacket leverages Barbour’s most traditional colorway in archive olive, while the Type II Denim version offers mid-wash indigo denim with a Barbour green cord collar and tonal embroidery at the cuff placket. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 30 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