napkin

noun

nap·​kin ˈnap-kən How to pronounce napkin (audio)
Synonyms of napkinnext
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 1
3

Examples of napkin 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.
Even the napkins have a dual purpose, with instructions on how to use Nespresso coffee machines printed on the back. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 20 Mar. 2026 House Bill 5524 would prohibit restaurants and other food service businesses from using polystyrene, commonly known as Styrofoam, for takeout, while also limiting items like utensils, napkins and straws. Deirdre Bardolf, FOXNews.com, 18 Mar. 2026 This shallow-but-hardworking closet became a party pantry for entertaining, housing items like cocktail and wine glasses, drink mixers, candles, and cloth napkins. Amy Panos, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Mar. 2026 In addition, restaurants and other food service providers would be prohibited from offering single-use items such as utensils, napkins, condiment packets or straws except upon request from customers. John Moritz, Hartford Courant, 15 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for napkin

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of napkin was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Napkin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/napkin. Accessed 21 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

napkin

noun
nap·​kin ˈnap-kən How to pronounce napkin (audio)
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 How to pronounce napkin (audio)
1
chiefly British : diaper
2

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