upholstery

noun

up·​hol·​stery (ˌ)əp-ˈhōl-st(ə-)rē 

(ˌ)ə-ˈpōl-

plural upholsteries

: materials (such as fabric, padding, and springs) used to make a soft covering especially for a seat

Examples of upholstery in a Sentence

an old chair that needs new upholstery

He learned upholstery from his father.

Recent Examples on the Web

Warm walnut, rich performance upholstery, and brushed metal details give the pieces a distinctly executive feel without making your home office feel like a corporate cubicle. — Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 8 Oct. 2026

That’s not to say there aren’t common elements—maximalist silk and velvet prints on the upholstery, fearless color when the fabrics are solid, blond herringbone wood floors, white marble in the bathroom. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026

Home coverage is increasingly framing the brown sofa as an alternative to the cool gray sofa, with brown upholstery paired against layered wood tones to bring that warmth deeper into a room. — Ashley Lynch, Charlotte Observer, 28 Sep. 2026

When considering thrift store furniture with upholstery, always check the cushions and padding for unpleasant odors. — Felicia Feaster, Martha Stewart, 27 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English upholdester upholsterer, from upholden to uphold, from up + holden to hold

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

upholstery

noun

up·​hol·​stery (ˌ)əp-ˈhōl-st(ə-)rē 

(ˌ)ə-ˈpōl-

plural upholsteries

: materials (as fabric, padding, and springs) used to make a soft covering especially for a seat