Napkins: meaning, definitions and examples
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napkins
[ ˈnæp.kɪn ]
Context #1
table setting
A small piece of cloth or paper used at meals to wipe the fingers or lips and to protect garments.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Please make sure to put out enough napkins for all the guests at the dinner party.
- She tucked her napkin into her collar before digging into the messy BBQ ribs.
Context #2
hygiene
A piece of cloth or paper used for cleaning or wiping oneself, typically with a meal.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He reached for a napkin to wipe the sweat from his forehead after the intense workout.
- She grabbed a handful of napkins to clean up the spilled coffee on the table.
Word origin
The word 'napkin' originated from the Middle English word 'nappekin', which means a small cloth or serviette. The use of napkins dates back to ancient times when people would use pieces of cloth or fabric to wipe their hands or mouths during meals. Over the years, the design and materials of napkins have evolved, from simple cloth squares to paper napkins commonly used today in restaurants and households.