smocking

American  

[smok-ing] / ˈsmɒk ɪŋ /

noun

1. smocked needlework.

2. embroidery stitches used to hold gathered cloth in even folds.

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smocking British  

/ ˈsmɒkɪŋ /

noun

1. ornamental needlework used to gather and stitch material in a honeycomb pattern so that the part below the gathers hangs in even folds

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Etymology

Origin of smocking

First recorded in 1885–90; smock + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

Beatrice was wearing her polished cotton, very girlish with the smocking across the bodice.

From Literature

Even down to the shape of this smocking and the crystal application and then the dégradé within the cape.

From New York Times

And the clothes he would make for her—pink crêpe de Chine frocks with dainty smocking at the yoke and sleeves.

From Literature

The president did, however, score one recent success, when his neologism “smocking” proved popular.

From The Guardian

A lot of that smocking wall is built.

From Salon

Related Words

• pleat