upholstery

noun

up·​hol·​stery (ˌ)əp-ˈhōl-st(ə-)rē 

(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

Ambient lighting, heated and ventilated front seats, power driver’s seat, leather seating upholstery and a panoramic sunroof are higher trim-level features. — James Raia, Mercury News, 19 July 2026

Be careful not to leave the upholstery to dry in a humid or damp area, as that might just introduce mold or a stale water smell, Micetich says. — Bridget Reed Morawski, Architectural Digest, 17 July 2026

Options for Life on the Road Buyers have the choice between two upholstery décor packages, Shoreline and Sagebrush. — Everett Potter, Forbes.com, 11 July 2026

Its curved lines and bright upholstery are decidedly modern, and it’s made with a steel frame finished in a warm wood transfer that withstands the rain and summer sun better than natural wood. — Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 9 July 2026

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

Kids Definition

upholstery

noun

up·​hol·​stery (ˌ)əp-ˈhōl-st(ə-)rē 

(ˌ)ə-ˈpōl-

plural upholsteries

: materials (as fabric, padding, and springs) used to make a soft covering especially for a seat