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Serviette Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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serviette

[ˈsɜː.viˌet ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

table setting

A serviette is a small piece of cloth or paper used while eating to protect the clothes or wipe the mouth.

Synonyms

handkerchief, napkin.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
serviette

Commonly used in British English and often refers to a disposable napkin provided during meals, typically in restaurants or at home during informal settings.

  • Could you pass me a serviette, please?
  • She placed a serviette next to each plate.
napkin

Commonly used in American English to describe a piece of cloth or paper used at meals to wipe the mouth and hands. It can be used in both formal and informal dining settings.

  • Please don't forget to set the table with napkins.
  • He wiped his mouth with a napkin.
handkerchief

Refers to a small, often cloth, piece of fabric carried in one's pocket or bag, used for personal hygiene such as wiping the face or nose. It can be formal or casual.

  • He pulled a handkerchief from his pocket to wipe his nose.
  • She waved her embroidered handkerchief as a farewell gesture.

Examples of usage

  • Please pass me a serviette.
  • She tucked the serviette into her collar to avoid spilling food on her dress.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'serviette'

The word 'serviette' originated from French, where it means 'napkin'. It was first used in English in the early 19th century to refer to a small cloth used during meals. Over time, the term 'serviette' has become less commonly used in British English in favor of 'napkin'. However, it is still widely used in other English-speaking countries.

See also: servant, server, serveware, service, servile, servility, servingware, subservience, subservient, subserviently.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,850, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.