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.
Incorporate this cozy take on the country club aesthetic with oversized plaid throws, checked upholstery, and flannel napkins for fall tablescapes. Ginger Perra, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Sep. 2025 Still, professional upholstery cleaners advise proceeding with caution. Hallie Milstein, Southern Living, 8 Sep. 2025 The shop will look for common indicators of flood damage such as damp and musty odors, carpet and upholstery that has been recently cleaned or replaced, dirt and dried mud under the dash, in the engine compartment, and inside the trunk. Rick Barrett, jsonline.com, 13 Aug. 2025 Some vacuums have special attachments that are specifically designed to trap pet hair, while others have more intense suction options that can remove pet hair from carpets and upholstery. Christopher Murray May Earn A Commission If You Buy Through Our Referral Links. This Content Was Created By A Team That Works Independently From The Fox Newsroom., FOXNews.com, 8 Aug. 2025 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 11 Sep. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on upholstery

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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