To sew decorative designs onto fabric; also means to add exaggerated details to a story to make it more interesting.
From Old French 'embroider,' from 'en-' (in) and 'broder' (to breed or weave), ultimately from Germanic roots. The metaphorical meaning developed naturally from decorative enhancement.
Embroidery requires such precision that in medieval Europe, embroiderers had higher status than most craftspeople—their work was so valuable that embroidered garments could ransom nobles!
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