tablecloth

noun

ta·​ble·​cloth ˈtā-bəl-ˌklȯth 

: a covering spread over a dining table before the tableware is set

Examples of tablecloth in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In addition to women’s lifestyle apparel, the brand does kidswear and home, including a bedding assortment and such tabletop items as napkins, tablecloths, runners and place mats. — Lisa Lockwood, Footwear News, 15 Oct. 2026

White-gloved servers will set up an elaborate table with starched tablecloths. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Oct. 2026

Standalone tables were covered in white tablecloths, our comfortable teal banquette-chair combo table was not. — Restaurant Critic, Houston Chronicle, 30 Sep. 2026

Enjoy a meal al fresco on this outdoor tablecloth or take this propane stove on a weekend camping trip. — Brittany Vanderbill, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for tablecloth

• broadcloth
• cheesecloth
• loincloth
• neckcloth
• oilcloth
• sackcloth
• washcloth
• zeroth
• broth
• cloth
• doth
• froth

Kids Definition

tablecloth

noun

ta·​ble·​cloth ˈtā-bəl-ˌklȯth 

: a covering spread over a dining table before the places are set