embroidery

[em-broi-duh-ree, -dree]

noun

plural

embroideries 

1. the art of working raised and ornamental designs in threads of silk, cotton, gold, silver, or other material, upon any woven fabric, leather, paper, etc., with a needle.

2. embroidered work or ornamentation.

3. elaboration or embellishment, as in telling a story.

embroidery

/ ɪmˈbrɔɪdərɪ /

noun

1. decorative needlework done usually on loosely woven cloth or canvas, often being a picture or pattern

2. elaboration or exaggeration, esp in writing or reporting; embellishment

Word History and Origins

Origin of embroidery¹

1350–1400; Middle English embrouderie needlework on cloth < Middle French embroud ( er ) + Middle English -erie -ery; oi from embroider

Example Sentences

Next, she pulls down some of her favorite Eastern European dresses, with traditional embroidery, from countries such as Hungary and Poland.

From Los Angeles Times

The huge embroidery - which is widely believed to have been created in Kent - will be displayed in London from next autumn until July 2027.

From BBC

"The lace, the embroidery and the beading - it's a wonderful example of an extraordinary level of detail," said Mr Thomas.

From BBC

The huge embroidery - which is widely believed to have been created in Kent - will go on display at the British Museum in London next year.

From BBC

Many big labels have featured Indian fabrics and embroidery work with little to no artist collaboration.

From BBC

Related Words

• brocade 
• decoration 
• lace 
• needlepoint 
• quilting 
• tapestry