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

There’s a common perception that textile art is limited to practices like knitting, embroidery or weaving. —Angela Velasquez, Footwear News, 28 Apr. 2026

The best luxury bath towels also feature decorative accents like embroidery and monogramming to elevate your washroom’s aesthetic. —Yelena Moroz Alpert, Architectural Digest, 28 Apr. 2026

There is Yaser Shaw, whose tissue-thin shawls come in shades of chartreuse and hot pink and include delicate embroidery. —Marisa Meltzer, Vanity Fair, 28 Apr. 2026

In time, reticules became more ornate and decorative, fashioned in delicate silks and velvets with intricate embroideries. —Andrea Zendejas, Vogue, 27 Apr. 2026

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