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 design aesthetic is contemporary American with a gentle nod to the building's history (in the form of details like tally-mark embroidery on throw pillows). —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 2026

Ethan Hawke embraces embroidery with his initials on the collar of his shirt at the 86th Annual Peabody Awards in Los Angeles on May 31. —People Staff, PEOPLE, 1 June 2026

Across the 2026 and 2027 bridal collections, there’s been a notable emphasis on intricate savoir-faire, with designers embracing the charm of handmade workmanship, including delicate weaves, openwork textures, and crochet-effect embroideries as couture-level details. —Laura Tortora, Vogue, 29 May 2026

The brand channels its Ukrainian roots with beautiful embroidery on traditional silhouettes, then easily shifts into contemporary minimalism with an edge that never abandons its cultural and aesthetic roots. —Kelsey Legg, ABC News, 27 May 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