embroidery

noun

em·​broi·​dery im-ˈbrȯi-d(ə-)rē How to pronounce embroidery (audio)
plural embroideries
1
a
: the art or process of forming decorative designs with hand or machine needlework
b
: a design or decoration formed by or as if by embroidery
c
: an object decorated with embroidery
2
: elaboration by use of decorative and often fictitious detail
3
: something pleasing or desirable but unimportant
considered the humanities mere educational embroidery

Examples of embroidery in a Sentence

She learned embroidery from her grandmother. His stories about his travels include a good deal of embroidery.
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.
With blouson sleeves, an A-line cut, and floral embroidery, this dress feels nostalgic without looking dated. Genevieve Cepeda, Travel + Leisure, 29 July 2025 Pieces from the capsules feature camouflage, shimmering fabrics, floral embroidery, rhinestones, rivets and unexpected silhouettes, all crafted with beach days, poolside hangs and party nights in mind. Julia Teti, Footwear News, 25 July 2025 The girls’ style is made with coated denim and embellished with puff embroidery and flowers. Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 22 July 2025 Younger sister Elle wore a black silk slip dress that hit just below the knee, with sheer straps and panelling that snaked down the bodice with light embroidery, paired with black kitten heels and a small rectangular clutch bag. Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 16 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for embroidery

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of embroidery was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Embroidery.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/embroidery. Accessed 7 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

embroidery

noun
em·​broi·​dery im-ˈbrȯid-(ə-)rē How to pronounce embroidery (audio)
plural embroideries
1
: the process or art of embroidering
2
: needlework done to decorate cloth

More from Merriam-Webster on embroidery

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!