noun

napkin

Napkin (noun) means a serviette; a (usually rectangular) piece of cloth or paper used at the table for wiping the mouth and hands for cleanliness while eating.

noun

A serviette; a (usually rectangular) piece of cloth or paper used at the table for wiping the mouth and hands for cleanliness while eating.

A nappy (UK), a diaper (American).

A small scarf worn on the head by Christian women (chiefly Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox) when entering a church, as a token of modesty.

Ellipsis of sanitary napkin.

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.

Test yourself on “napkin” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Etymology

From Middle English napkyn, equivalent to nape (“cloth”) + -kin (diminutive suffix).

Frequently asked questions

What is the meaning of napkin?

"napkin" (noun) means a serviette; a (usually rectangular) piece of cloth or paper used at the table for wiping the mouth and hands for cleanliness while eating.

What are the different meanings of napkin?

"napkin" has 3 main meanings: 1. A serviette; a (usually rectangular) piece of cloth or paper used at the table for wiping the mouth and hands for cleanliness while eating; 2. A nappy (UK), a diaper (American); 3. A small scarf worn on the head by Christian women (chiefly Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox) when entering a church, as a token of modesty.