upholstery

noun

up·​hol·​stery (ˌ)əp-ˈhōl-st(ə-)rē How to pronounce upholstery (audio)
(ˌ)ə-ˈpōl-
plural upholsteries
: materials (such as fabric, padding, and springs) used to make a soft covering especially for a seat

Examples of upholstery in a Sentence

an old chair that needs new upholstery He learned upholstery from his father.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
No matter the size, the decor is all Old World luxury—brocade upholstery, crystal lamp bases, and marble counters. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 Apr. 2026 Even without a major spill, everyday wear and tear including sweat, pets, and sticky fingers leaves its mark (or many marks) on the cotton, microfiber, leather, or other common couch upholstery facing daily use. Bridget Reed Morawski, Architectural Digest, 2 Apr. 2026 The linen-blend upholstery offers breathable comfort for movie marathons and slumber parties, while the cushioning provides ample lumbar and neck support. Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 Apr. 2026 The goal of Coolnvintage’s founder, Ricardo Pessoa, is to present restomods with flawless paintwork along with tailored upholstery draped over the top of a pristine chassis and perfect mechanicals. Simon De Burton, Robb Report, 1 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for upholstery

Word History

Etymology

Middle English upholdester upholsterer, from upholden to uphold, from up + holden to hold

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of upholstery was in 1597

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Upholstery.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/upholstery. Accessed 4 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

upholstery

noun
up·​hol·​stery (ˌ)əp-ˈhōl-st(ə-)rē How to pronounce upholstery (audio)
(ˌ)ə-ˈpōl-
plural upholsteries
: materials (as fabric, padding, and springs) used to make a soft covering especially for a seat

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