Upholstery: meaning, definitions and examples

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upholstery

 

[ ʌˈpoʊlstəri ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

furniture covering

Upholstery refers to the materials used to cover and furnish furniture, specifically items like chairs, sofas, and cushions. It can involve various fabrics, padding, and sometimes springing, all intended to provide comfort and aesthetics to furniture pieces. The choice of upholstery can significantly affect the look and feel of a room. Additionally, upholstery can be a key factor in maintaining the overall condition of the furniture over time.

Synonyms

covering, furnishing, padding

Examples of usage

  • The chair's upholstery was made from a soft velvet fabric.
  • She decided to reupholster the old sofa with a modern pattern.
  • Upholstery can transform the ambiance of any living space.

Translations

Translations of the word "upholstery" in other languages:

🇵🇹 estofamento

🇮🇳 फर्नीचर का कपड़ा

🇩🇪 Polsterung

🇮🇩 pelapis

🇺🇦 оббивка

🇵🇱 tapicerka

🇯🇵 張り地

🇫🇷 tapisserie

🇪🇸 tapicería

🇹🇷 döşeme

🇰🇷 가구 직물

🇸🇦 أقمشة الأثاث

🇨🇿 čalounění

🇸🇰 čalúnenie

🇨🇳 家具装饰

🇸🇮 oblazinjenje

🇮🇸 polstringur

🇰🇿 жабдықтау

🇬🇪 დაფარვა

🇦🇿 döşəmə

🇲🇽 tapicería

Word origin

The word 'upholstery' traces its origins back to the Middle English term 'upholder,' which referred to someone who provided support or held up things, specifically furniture. It is derived from the Old French 'upholsterie' meaning 'to furnish or adorn.' The term evolved over time to encompass not just the act of furnishing, but also the materials involved. The craft of upholstery gained prominence in the 17th and 18th centuries, alongside the rise of upholstered furniture in Europe, as it allowed for greater comfort and style in home decoration. Upholstery techniques and materials have continuously evolved, incorporating various styles and innovations, reflecting changes in consumer preferences and design trends.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,662, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.