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 Create soothing bedrooms, turning them into peaceful retreats by selecting natural, breathable materials for bedding and upholstery — like organic cotton or linen. Caron Golden, San Diego Union-Tribune, 27 Apr. 2024 It can be used on all floor types — carpet, hardwood, linoleum as well as upholstery. Clara McMahon, Peoplemag, 22 Apr. 2024 The two-seater’s cabin is nearly as outrageous, featuring a 360-degree panoramic cockpit, a giant infotainment screen, and midnight blue leather upholstery. Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 18 Apr. 2024 It's generally not recommended to use heavy-duty commercial products on a mattress, such as an upholstery cleaner. Caitlin Sole, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Apr. 2024 The living room, at the home’s western end, is large and airy, bathed in shades of Barragán’s beloved vivid pink, which appears on the rug and upholstery. Max Berlinger, New York Times, 1 Mar. 2024 For this reason, a quality dog raincoat can be a life (and upholstery) saver. Cai Cramer, Peoplemag, 15 Apr. 2024 While accent pillows are a great way to add color, consider adding color with rugs, art, upholstery, accessories or drapery. Marni Jameson, The Mercury News, 4 Apr. 2024 How to sell: Fill out this consignment form to sell neutral upholstery, brand furniture, lighting and accessories, traditional antiques and vintage pieces at 50% off its selling price. Kayleigh Ruller, Charlotte Observer, 2 Apr. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'upholstery.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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

Dictionary Entries Near upholstery

Cite this Entry

“Upholstery.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/upholstery. Accessed 1 May. 2024.

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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