English · Food & Drink
napkin
/ˈnæp.kɪn/
[/ˈnæp.kɪn/]
cloth for wiping
Beginnernoun
Definition
A piece of cloth or paper used at meals to wipe the mouth and hands.
Example
He placed the cloth napkin on his lap before the waiter served the first course.
He placed the cloth napkin on his lap before the waiter served the first course.
Etymology
From Old French 'nappe' (tablecloth) plus the diminutive '-kin'.
How & Where It’s Used
Common in dining and table-setting contexts.