tapestry

noun

tap·​es·​try ˈta-pə-strē 

plural tapestries

1

a

: a heavy handwoven reversible textile used for hangings, curtains, and upholstery and characterized by complicated pictorial designs

b

: a nonreversible imitation of tapestry used chiefly for upholstery

c

: embroidery on canvas resembling woven tapestry

needlepoint tapestry

2

: something resembling tapestry (as in complexity or richness of design)

nature's rich tapestry

Examples of tapestry in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

These are the people who really have to gauge the marketability of projects and companies, against a very vibrant tapestry of quickly changing business realities. —John Werner, Forbes.com, 23 Apr. 2025

Niya’s moment in the first scene is one of a dense tapestry Gilroy is creating in the 12-episode arc. —Chris O'Falt, IndieWire, 22 Apr. 2025

As a tapestry mysteriously reflects their family’s history, the couple must confront their values. —Jamie Lang, Variety, 15 Apr. 2025

His delivery interlaces beautifully with the harmonious and sweet high vocals of Servando & Florentino, creating a rich tapestry of sound that reflects their musical heritage. —Tere Aguilera, Billboard, 11 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, modification of Anglo-French tapicerie, from tapit, tapis carpet, hanging, from Greek tapētion, diminutive of tapēt-, tapēs carpet

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing tapestry

• tapestry carpet

Kids Definition

tapestry

noun

tap·​es·​try ˈtap-ə-strē 

plural tapestries

: a heavy cloth that has designs or pictures woven into it and is used especially as a wall hanging

tapestried

-strēd

adjective