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 3

3

: sanitary napkin

Examples of napkin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Unlike Adam, Edelman will talk your ear off, his big brown eyes bouncing off the walls as his hands fidget with a napkin. —Ethan Shanfeld, Variety, 16 Sep. 2025

Chopsticks nest on linen napkins alongside classic bistro silverware. —The Bon Appétit Staff, Bon Appetit Magazine, 12 Sep. 2025

Water bottles, napkins and flyers were strewn on the lawn. —Eric Levenson, CNN Money, 12 Sep. 2025

Incorporate this cozy take on the country club aesthetic with oversized plaid throws, checked upholstery, and flannel napkins for fall tablescapes. —Ginger Perra, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Sep. 2025

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