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

Stalls are usually arranged around communal tables with plastic stools, disposable tablecloths, and toilet rolls for serviettes. — Lee Cobaj, Condé Nast Traveler, 20 Oct. 2026

Zebra tablecloths and napkins completed the safari theme, and the walls were decorated with faux magazine covers of Bradfield and his partner, auctioneer William Featherby. — Richard Johnson, New York Daily News, 18 Oct. 2026

The tables were draped in salmon-pink tablecloths and ringed with bright red chairs, and each plate had a napkin folded into a swan. — Literary Hub, 16 Oct. 2026

The set is a big red restaurant booth with a white tablecloth. — Nicholas Quah, Vulture, 16 Oct. 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