tablecloth

noun

ta·​ble·​cloth ˈtā-bəl-ˌklȯth How to pronounce tablecloth (audio)
: a covering spread over a dining table before the tableware is set

Examples of tablecloth in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Red-and-white gingham tablecloths cover the tables beneath walls crowded with framed photographs, newspaper clippings, awards and decades worth of memories. Arkansas Online, 28 June 2026 The lucky ones have shutters or awnings, but others must climb stepladders to hang sheets or tablecloths from windows. Henry Grabar, The Atlantic, 27 June 2026 There was no white tablecloth, no molecular fusion, no farm-to-table ethos. Jenny Adams, Travel + Leisure, 27 June 2026 This one recalls tablecloth fabrics, but features a UV-resistant poly weave instead that works indoors and out. Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for tablecloth

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of tablecloth was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Tablecloth.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tablecloth. Accessed 1 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

tablecloth

noun
ta·​ble·​cloth ˈtā-bəl-ˌklȯth How to pronounce tablecloth (audio)
: a covering spread over a dining table before the places are set

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