'upholstery' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'upholden,' where 'up-' meant 'up' and 'holden' meant 'to hold.'

'upholden' transformed into the term 'upholster,' and eventually became the modern English word 'upholstery.'

Initially, it meant 'to hold up or support,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'materials used to cover furniture.'