drapery

noun

drap·​ery ˈdrā-p(ə-)rē 

plural draperies

1

British : dry goods

2

a

: a decorative piece of material usually hung in loose folds and arranged in a graceful design

b

: hangings of heavy fabric for use as a curtain

3

: the draping or arranging of materials

Synonyms of drapery

• curtains
• drapes

Examples of drapery in a Sentence

The painter arranged several items among drapery and began to work.

the drapery for the picture window matched the color of the furniture in the center of the room

Recent Examples on the Web

The current decor leans a bit old-school, with floral drapery and decorative wallpaper, but the new owners could update it to their own tastes. —Tori Latham, Robb Report, 30 Apr. 2026

In beautiful natural environments, choose drapery that mimics the great outdoors. —Shagun Khare, Martha Stewart, 25 Apr. 2026

Choose drapery that can be laundered or replace with blinds that can be dusted regularly. —Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 25 Apr. 2026

Note, for example, the heavy draperies and their tassels, the busy floral wallpapers, the stalks of hydrangeas that flank the mantelpiece, and the art and finery covering every surface. —Laura E. Helton, Literary Hub, 20 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for drapery

• papery

Kids Definition

drapery

noun

drap·​ery ˈdrā-p(ə-)rē 

plural draperies

1

: a decorative fabric hung in loose folds

2

: curtains of heavy fabric often used over thinner curtains