marquetry

noun

mar·​que·​try ˈmär-kə-trē 

variants or less commonly marqueterie

: decorative work in which elaborate patterns are formed by the insertion of pieces of material (such as wood, shell, or ivory) into a wood veneer that is then applied to a surface (as of a piece of furniture)

Illustration of marquetry

• M marquetry

Examples of marquetry in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Earlier this month, guests filled The Cellar, a private dining room at the hotel, admiring the walls of geometric marquetry which was popular during the Gilded Age. —Natasha Gural, Forbes.com, 26 June 2025

The collection reflects Artek and Marimekko’s pursuit to create long-lasting design, and the production process of this marquetry technique minimizes wood waste. —Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 10 June 2025

Design and Accommodations With glossy lacquered wood, intricate marquetry, sumptuous fabrics, and lamps by Lalique and Baccarat, the VSOE exudes Jazz Age glamour. —Laura Itzkowitz, Travel + Leisure, 25 May 2025

Other details in the home include moldings, marquetry, an original staircase, three gas fireplaces, murals and stained glass. —Lauryn Azu, Chicago Tribune, 5 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle French marqueterie, from marqueter to checker, inlay, from marque mark

First Known Use

1563, in the meaning defined above