upholstered
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ʌˈhoʊl.stɚd/
KK: /ʌˈhoʊlstərd/
adjective
Definition
Covered with a soft material, such as fabric or leather, to make furniture more comfortable and attractive.
Example
The sofa is upholstered in a beautiful blue fabric.
Conversation
I just bought a new chair that’s upholstered in a soft fabric.
That sounds really comfortable!
Yeah, I love how the upholstered design looks in my living room.
It must add a nice touch to the decor!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
padded
cushioned
softened
Antonyms
bare
hard
uncovered
verb
Definition
To cover furniture, especially seats, with fabric, padding, or other materials to make it comfortable and attractive.
Example
The old chair was beautifully upholstered in a rich velvet fabric.
Tense Forms
Past: upholstered
Past Participle: upholstered
Conversation
Did you see how they upholstered that old chair?
Yeah, it looks brand new now!
I can't believe they upholstered it with such a bold color.
Root Explanation
Upholstered → It is formed from "up" (meaning in a higher position) and "holster" (from Old French *holster*, meaning to provide or furnish). The word "upholstered" refers to furniture that has been provided or furnished with padding, fabric, or leather, making it more comfortable and decorative.
Memory Tip
Think of 'providing' ('holster') comfort and style to something 'up' — that's why upholstered means furniture that is furnished with padding.
Visually Confused Words
unupholstered
holstered
nonupholstered
unpostered
ulstered
unplastered
unbolstered
reupholster