1. a decorative embroidery technique that gathers fabric into pleats with stitched patterns
Usage: needlework; fashion

Examples

• The dress featured beautiful smocking across the bodice.
• She learned smocking from her grandmother’s sewing patterns.
• The children’s clothing store specialized in garments with hand-done smocking.
• Smocking creates both decorative appeal and fabric stretch.
• The vintage blouse had intricate smocking around the neckline.
• Traditional smocking requires careful measurement and precise stitching.