embroider

verb

em·​broi·​der im-ˈbrȯi-dər 

embroidered; embroidering im-ˈbrȯi-d(ə-)riŋ 

transitive verb

1

a

: to ornament with needlework

b

: to form with needlework

2

: to elaborate on : embellish

embroider a story

intransitive verb

1

: to make embroidery

2

: to provide embellishments : elaborate

embroiderer

im-ˈbrȯi-dər-ər 

noun

Synonyms

• color
• elaborate (on)
• embellish
• exaggerate
• hyperbolize
• magnify
• pad
• stretch

Examples of embroider in a Sentence

She embroidered tiny flowers on the baby's scarf.

a scarf embroidered with tiny flowers

He is known to embroider the truth about his service in the army.

Recent Examples on the Web

The Speedy 40 and Montsouris backpack showcase the LV Blason Denim, with the logo embroidered in a variety of striking hues. —Essence, 21 Feb. 2025

Made from soft navy velvet, each pouch is embroidered with star sign designs and can be used for storing make-up, handbag essentials or as an evening clutch. —Angelina Villa-Clarke, Forbes, 21 Feb. 2025

Harlow wears a red coat over a silk two-piece set embroidered with her initials on the cuff, as well a gold watch, diamond tennis bracelet, and several dazzling diamond earrings. —Glamour, 19 Feb. 2025

And in advance of Valentine’s Day, Frankel swooped up Talbots’ ivory cardigan that is embroidered with red hearts and an Elsa Peretti-type gold open heart pendant necklace. —Rosemary Feitelberg, WWD, 14 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

alteration of Middle English embroderen, from Anglo-French embrouder, from en- + brosder, brouder to embroider, of Germanic origin; akin to Old English brord point, byrst bristle

First Known Use

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

Kids Definition

embroider

verb

em·​broi·​der im-ˈbrȯid-ər 

embroidered; embroidering -(ə-)riŋ 

1

: to make or fill in a design with needlework

2

: to decorate with needlework

3

: to add to the interest of (as a story) with details or by exaggerating

embroiderer

-ər-ər 

noun