wallpaper

[ wawl-pey-per ]

noun

1. paper, usually with printed decorative patterns in color, for pasting on and covering the walls or ceilings of rooms, hallways, etc.
2. any fabric, foil, vinyl material, etc., used as a wall or ceiling covering.
3. Computers. a design or picture in the background of the primary display screen of a graphical user interface:

   Personalize your tablet by changing the wallpaper.

verb (used with object)

1. to put wallpaper on (a wall, ceiling, etc.) or to furnish (a room, house, etc.) with wallpaper.

wallpaper

/ ˈwɔːlˌpeɪpə /

noun

1. paper usually printed or embossed with designs for pasting onto walls and ceilings
2. 1. something pleasant but bland which serves as an unobtrusive background
   2. ( as modifier )

      wallpaper music

3. computing a graphics file that can be displayed in certain applications behind or around the main dialogue boxes, working display areas, etc, for decoration

verb

1. to cover (a surface) with wallpaper

Word History and Origins

Origin of wallpaper¹

First recorded in 1820–30; wall + paper

Example Sentences

He began integrating traditional techniques and patterns into his designs, and his work now includes a popular collection of cushions and throws, as well as a successful wallpaper collaboration.

From BBC

The living room she sits in is filled with knick-knacks and family photos, amid a garish clash of of geometric beige wallpaper, turquoise walls and a patterned red carpet.

From BBC

Ms Barham, who suffers heart issues, said she has had to throw away almost all of her furniture and cherished belongings, plus rip up the floor and wallpaper due to the infestation.

From BBC

In a former wallpaper factory in Chiswick, west London, a start-up firm has been developing a long-term storage system that uses lasers to burn tiny holograms into a light-sensitive polymer.

From BBC

“A birth center is more than just wallpaper and curtains — it’s a whole model of care.”

From New York Times