drapery

noun

drap·​ery ˈdrā-p(ə-)rē 

plural draperies

1

British : dry goods

2

a

: a decorative piece of material usually hung in loose folds and arranged in a graceful design

b

: hangings of heavy fabric for use as a curtain

3

: the draping or arranging of materials

Synonyms

• curtains
• drapes

Examples of drapery in a Sentence

The painter arranged several items among drapery and began to work.

the drapery for the picture window matched the color of the furniture in the center of the room

Recent Examples on the Web

Inside, everything from the textures down to the finishes are curated nods to the original property, including a fireplace made of onyx and custom embroidered window drapery featuring a special archival pattern. —Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 10 Dec. 2024

For the triennial, the museum has also interspersed Carnegie-era rugs, drapery and upholstered furniture, reuniting the grand landmark’s present incarnation with its prior life as the Carnegie family home. —Jacoba Urist, Smithsonian Magazine, 4 Nov. 2024

Ann Mashburn’s women’s store is 1,900 square feet with white fixtures and silk shantung drapery. —Jean E. Palmieri, WWD, 3 Nov. 2024

Pair it with this matching wreath for a seamless look from inside and out, or opt for another garland variety from Gaines’ collection, including faux cedar drapery with pinecones or faux spruce garland. —Maggie Horton, People.com, 25 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

drapery

noun

drap·​ery ˈdrā-p(ə-)rē 

plural draperies

1

: a decorative fabric hung in loose folds

2

: curtains of heavy fabric often used over thinner curtains