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

Rebecca Udall's brand has caught our attention because of the bedding's delicate scalloped edges, ornate embroidery, and elegant designs that make sleep feel a little more luxurious. — Jacorey Moon, Architectural Digest, 7 Nov. 2026

Materson’s intricate embroideries stray in their subjects from baseball to outer space, with the most striking blending imagination and documentation. — Tessa Solomon, ARTnews.com, 7 Nov. 2026

West translated that psychological heaviness into robes constructed from substantial fabrics, rich leather, and embroidery. — Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 5 Nov. 2026

Knitwear is a key category, spanning grandpa-chic cardigans with jacquard florals, shrunken styles trimmed with ribbons, chunky crewneck sweaters with mandala embroidery and belted cardigans finished with jewel-like studs. — Martino Carrera, Footwear News, 5 Nov. 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