napkin

noun

nap·​kin ˈnap-kən 

1

: a piece of material (such as cloth or paper) used at table to wipe the lips or fingers and protect the clothes

2

: a small cloth or towel: such as

a

dialectal British : handkerchief

b

chiefly Scotland : kerchief

c

chiefly British : diaper sense 1

3

: sanitary napkin

Examples of napkin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Don’t be fooled into thinking napkin rings aren’t noticed. —Bestreviews, Mercury News, 18 May 2026

Replace Food Wraps Cloth napkins are a great alternative to disposable food storage wraps. —Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 18 May 2026

Layer dishware, colorful cloth napkins, and candlesticks that feature whimsical fruit motifs. —Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Apr. 2026

Wool coasters and napkins were crafted by Lewitinn herself. —David Hochman, Forbes.com, 27 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English nappekin, from nape tablecloth, from Anglo-French, from Latin mappa napkin

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing napkin

• sanitary napkin

Kids Definition

napkin

noun

nap·​kin ˈnap-kən 

1

: a small square of cloth or paper used during a meal to wipe the lips or fingers and protect the clothes

2

: a small cloth or towel

Etymology

Middle English nappekin "napkin," from nappe "tablecloth," derived from Latin mappa "napkin" — related to apron, map

Medical Definition

napkin

noun

nap·​kin ˈnap-kən 

1

chiefly British : diaper

2

: sanitary napkin