UPHOLSTERER  , in

modern usage, a tradesman who supplies coverings, cushions, padding and stuffing for chairs, sofas or beds, or who repairs the same, and more generally one who also provides carpets, curtains and household furniture . The word first appears as " upholder, " then as " upholdster " or " up-holster, " and finally with repetition of -er, as in " poulterer," " upholsterer . " The first meaning seems to have been a broker or dealer in small wares . Probably the name was given to a broker who sold such goods by auction, holding them up to public view as is the manner of auction-rooms .