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

The takeover will present Bernadette’s cozy concept, with all the brand’s brightly colored ceramics, including cups and candlesticks, as well as tablecloths, napkins, curtains and shades — sans the sartorial side. —Rhonda Richford, WWD, 23 Sep. 2024

The set includes plates, cups, napkins, and silverware for 20 guests, plus a banner and tablecloth. —Kaitlin Gates, Southern Living, 18 Sep. 2024

There’s a certain romance in those company-origin stories where inspiration strikes in the middle of a crowded bar and the founder jots down their idea on a napkin. —Aytekin Tank, Forbes, 17 Sep. 2024

What does a Chipotle napkin, fork, water cup, burrito, and to-go bag have in common? —Alex Perry, The Enquirer, 6 Sep. 2024

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