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Tablecloths: meaning, definitions and examples

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tablecloths

[ ˈteɪbəlklɔːθ ]

Noun

^{Context #1 | Noun}

covering furniture

A tablecloth is a cloth used to cover a table. It is often used to protect the table surface from scratches, stains, and heat damage. Tablecloths come in a variety of materials, colors, and patterns, and are commonly used for decorative purposes during meals and special occasions.

Synonyms

table cover, table linen, table overlay.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
table cover	This is a more general term that can refer to anything that covers a table. It can be used interchangeably with 'tablecloth' but is less specific. This term is suitable when the material or style is not important. We need a table cover for the picnic table. A plastic table cover is great for kids' parties.
table linen	This term refers to high-quality fabric, often made from linen or other fine materials. It is typically used in formal dining settings or upscale restaurants and events. It implies a sense of elegance and formality. The restaurant used table linen for a more polished look. She bought new table linen for the holiday dinner.
table overlay	This term describes a decorative layer placed over a base tablecloth, often used to add color, pattern, or texture. It is common in weddings, banquets, and special events. A lace table overlay was used to create a vintage look. The table overlay added a pop of color to the reception.

Word

Description / Examples

table cover

This is a more general term that can refer to anything that covers a table. It can be used interchangeably with 'tablecloth' but is less specific. This term is suitable when the material or style is not important.

We need a table cover for the picnic table.
A plastic table cover is great for kids' parties.

table linen

This term refers to high-quality fabric, often made from linen or other fine materials. It is typically used in formal dining settings or upscale restaurants and events. It implies a sense of elegance and formality.

The restaurant used table linen for a more polished look.
She bought new table linen for the holiday dinner.

table overlay

This term describes a decorative layer placed over a base tablecloth, often used to add color, pattern, or texture. It is common in weddings, banquets, and special events.

A lace table overlay was used to create a vintage look.
The table overlay added a pop of color to the reception.

Examples of usage

The elegant white tablecloth was embroidered with delicate flowers.
She spread a festive tablecloth over the dining table for the holiday dinner.
The vintage lace tablecloth added a touch of sophistication to the table setting.

Translations

Translations of the word "tablecloths" in other languages:

🇵🇹 toalhas de mesa

🇮🇳 मेज़पोश

🇩🇪 Tischdecken

🇮🇩 taplak meja

🇺🇦 скатертини

🇵🇱 obrusy

🇯🇵 テーブルクロス

🇫🇷 nappes

🇪🇸 manteles

🇹🇷 masa örtüleri

🇰🇷 식탁보

🇸🇦 مفارش الطاولات

🇨🇿 ubrusy

🇸🇰 obrusy

🇨🇳 桌布

🇸🇮 prti

🇮🇸 borðdúkar

🇰🇿 үстел жапқыштары

🇬🇪 მაგიდის გადასაფარებლები

🇦🇿 stol örtükləri

🇲🇽 manteles

Etymology

The use of tablecloths dates back to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and Romans. Initially, tablecloths were used for practical purposes like protecting tables from spills and scratches. Over time, they became symbols of hospitality and were adorned with intricate designs and patterns. Today, tablecloths are an essential part of table settings for formal dining and special occasions, reflecting cultural traditions and personal style preferences.

See also: table, tablecloth, tableland, tables, tablets, tableware.