tapestry

[ tap-uh-stree ]

noun

, plural tap·es·tries.

1. a fabric consisting of a warp upon which colored threads are woven by hand to produce a design, often pictorial, used for wall hangings, furniture coverings, etc.
2. a machine-woven reproduction of this.

verb (used with object)

, tap·es·tried, tap·es·try·ing.

1. to furnish, cover, or adorn with tapestry.
2. to represent or depict in a tapestry.

tapestry

/ ˈtæpɪstrɪ /

noun

1. a heavy ornamental fabric, often in the form of a picture, used for wall hangings, furnishings, etc, and made by weaving coloured threads into a fixed warp
2. another word for needlepoint
3. a colourful and complicated situation

   the rich tapestry of London life

Derived Forms

• ˈtapestried, adjective
• ˈtapestry-ˌlike, adjective

Other Words From

• tapes·try·like adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of tapestry¹

1400–50; late Middle English tapst ( e ) ry, tapistry < Middle French tapisserie carpeting. See tapis, -ery

Word History and Origins

Origin of tapestry¹

C15: from Old French tapisserie carpeting, from Old French tapiz carpet; see tapis

Example Sentences

We listened in rapt, reverential awe, cozied by Vienna’s velvet strings, velvet winds and velvet brass woven together in a perfect tapestry of lush sonic textures and instrumental colors.

From Los Angeles Times

In the grand tapestry of human existence, we are all connected.

From Los Angeles Times

Or, instead, could former President Trump’s extended discourses demonstrate his genius — an ability, as he says, to “weave” disparate stories into a beautiful tapestry?

From Los Angeles Times

It is a seething tapestry of social media attacks, conspiracies, Bible quotes and name-calling under the maxim that all politics is local, if viscerally so.

From Los Angeles Times

This compelling blend of spiritual quest and family saga is a profound exploration of Guatemala’s rich cultural tapestry.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• drapery